Supporting Student Independency in Transition Programs, Resource Tools for Adult Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

The Embark Program, a post-secondary transition program located on the Salem State University Campus, teaches students with intellectual disabilities to be independent adults. A popular new tool used in special education curriculum are resource cards. Resource cards provide visual and written cues to allow students to practice self-advocacy and problem-solving skills. This project introduced students to a selection of five resource cards related to classroom topics. Those students were then given a survey to gauge their openness to using resource cards and gain insight into their opinions. Results concluded that students were highly receptive to resource cards and showed preferences for both visual and written cues and the topic of social skills.