The Role of Self-Determination in Special Education

Advance The Conversation

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Advance The Conversation," hosted by Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle from the University of Cincinnati's Special Education Department. Together, they delve into the concept of self-determination and its significance in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This discussion is tailored for teachers, prospective teachers, parents, siblings, and individuals with disabilities, offering valuable insights into the importance of fostering self-determination.

Key Points Discussed:

-Introduction and Backgrounds:

• Dr. Kate Doyle: Faculty member in special education at the University of Cincinnati, with experience ranging from early childhood to high school and young adults.
• Dr. Christi Carnahan: Associate professor and Director of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Education Center at the University of Cincinnati, focusing on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Ashley Barlow: Special education attorney and parent, former teacher, bringing a unique perspective combining advocacy and education.

-Purpose of the Podcast:

• To explore the concept of self-determination and its implications for various stakeholders including teachers, families, and individuals with disabilities.
• To share insights from research and practical experiences in special education and transition services.

-Personal Insights and Experiences:

• Ashley Barlow shares her journey as a parent and advocate, emphasizing the importance of self-determination in her son's education and development.
• Dr. Kate Doyle discusses her transition from working with younger children to high school students and adults, highlighting the transformative impact of self-determination on her teaching philosophy.
• Dr. Christi Carnahan shares her passion for literacy and communication interventions, and the importance of putting individuals with disabilities in the driver's seat of their own lives.

-Impact of the Podcast:

• The podcast serves as a platform to discuss and promote self-determination, showcasing the work done at the University of Cincinnati.
• It highlights the importance of teamwork and ideological conflict in fostering self-determination, both in educational settings and in personal development.

-Lessons Learned:

• The hosts discuss the importance of stepping back and allowing individuals to make their own decisions, emphasizing problem-solving and self-awareness.
• They share personal stories and experiences that illustrate the challenges and rewards of fostering self-determination.

-Practical Applications:

• The importance of involving individuals in their own goal-setting and decision-making processes.
• Strategies for supporting self-determination in educational settings, including reframing help as empowering and guiding rather than fixing.

Call to Action:

• For more information about the University of Cincinnati's special education programs, visit online.uc.edu/SPED.
• To learn more about the programs for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, visit cech.uc.edu.
• Contact us with your thoughts and questions at [e-mail].

Join us on this journey as we advance the conversation on self-determination and its crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities.