Case Studies that Illustrate Achieving Career Success in Postsecondary Education through Self-Determination and Problem-Solving Skills
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Keywords
post secondary education, career planning, students with disabilities, self-determination, problem solving
Abstract
Conditions for students with disabilities in postsecondary education are improving and numbers are increasing. The potential for better outcomes may well be addressed through personal examples of effective support and accommodations. This article presents three case studies across a spectrum of conditions. These adults, with sensory, emotional, and/or cognitive disabilities, were 29 to 44 years of age, with a variety of life choices. They sought participatory guidance and support from a program at Virginia Commonwealth University. They explored career options around which to build degree programs in administration, exercise science, and photography. The emerging theme was the ability to create personal futures through self-determination and problem-solving.
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Peter W. Dowrick, Professor of Disability Studies and Psychology, University of Hawaii
Peter W. Dowrick, Ph.D., is Professor of Disability Studies and Psychology at the University of Hawaii. He has wide experience working with people marginalized by culture, disability, mental health, and other considerations. His overarching contribution has been in the concepts of feedforward and creating futures, applied in situations of personal safety, serious mental illness, social behavior, sports and recreation, daily living, literacy, academic skills, health, housing, management, and jobs, among others. Correspondence concerning this article can be sent to: Dr. Peter W. Dowrick, 1776 University Av. UA 4-6, University of Hawaii, Manoa, HI 96822, USA, (808) 956-8741 (telephone), (808) 956-4371 (fax), or [email protected].
Elizabeth Evans Getzel, VCU-RRTC Director of Postsecondary Education Initiatives, Virginia Commonwealth University
Elizabeth Evans Getzel, M.A., is the VCU-RRTC Director of Postsecondary Education Initiatives at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. She has over 20 years of experience conducting research, evaluation, and training in the areas of transition planning for secondary students with disabilities, postsecondary education for student with disabilities, and career planning/employment for individuals with disabilities.
Lori W. Briel, Research Associate, VCU-RRTC
Lori W. Briel, M.Ed., is a Research Associate at the VCU-RRTC in Richmond, Virginia. Currently, she provides comprehensive career planning and placement services for postsecondary students with disabilities. Additionally, she assists with the development activities for university faculty. She has co-authored several journal articles and a book chapter in these areas.