Tracking Network Growth of Students with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) and Understanding the Challenges, Expectations, and Realizations of Families in a Postsecondary Program

Tracking Network Growth in a Postsecondary Program

Authors

  • PATRICIA SPENCER University of South Alabama
  • James P. Van Haneghan University of South Alabama
  • Abigail Baxter University of South Alabama
  • Alexandra Chanto-Wetter University of South Alabama
  • Lindsey Meyer University of South Alabama

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.13021/jipe.2021.2740

Keywords:

social network analysis; postsecondary education; intellectual disabilities; self-determination; employment

Abstract

Social Network Analysis is used to track the growth of students’ network in a PSE from their perspective and their parents’ perspective. Analysis from both perspectives found that while there was an increase in network size and a shift from family-centered networks to more peer centered networks, there was a decrease in density as participants formed distinct clusters in their network, an indication that network characteristics vary geographically based on the level of opportunities available. This mixed-methods study revealed individual and programmatic implications for helping students develop their social networks to increase social capital and improve employment outcomes.

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Published

2021-05-24

How to Cite

SPENCER, P., Van Haneghan, J. P. ., Baxter, A., Chanto-Wetter, A., & Meyer, L. (2021). Tracking Network Growth of Students with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) and Understanding the Challenges, Expectations, and Realizations of Families in a Postsecondary Program: Tracking Network Growth in a Postsecondary Program. Journal of Inclusive Postsecondary Education, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.13021/jipe.2021.2740