Transitioning to Adulthood

Definition
IDEA defines transition services as a coordinated set of activities for a child with a disability that
(a) is designed to be within a results- oriented process, that is focused on improving the academics and functional achievement of the child with a disability to facilitate the child's movement from school to post school activities
(b) is based on the individual child's needs, taking into account the child's strengths, preferences, and interest.
(c) includes instruction, related services, community experiences, the development of employment and other post school adult living objectives, and when appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills

Teaching Implications
Some of the skills and activities to help children and students in the real world are:Daily job training visits to community work- sites to work on employability skills. Regular instruction in building the students money skills. Regular instruction in building their survival work vocabulary. Strengthening student's computer skills through use of vocational and educational software including basic word processing and typing skills. Regular planning meetings with the student, parents and caregivers, and adult service providers and agencies to discuss and plan for postschool desired outcomes . Friday outings into community to purchase own lunch.

Assitive Technology
Assistive Technology Assessment
Evaluates physical, vision, sensory and cognitive limitations, and gives a teen or young adult the opportunity to explore work and classroom options. A written report provides recommendations of appropriate adaptive technology or accommodations and where to obtain the technology.

Assistive Technology (AT) is a crucial part of Courage Center. We believe that through technology intervention all things are possible. Whether you are interested in computer access or a simple talking clock, Courage Center has the program to fit your needs. Courage Center AT is a combination of therapy and non-therapy services, (e.g., Bioness to work on arm strengthening or computer adaptations needed for a student). AT is offered throughout the four Courage Center sites. However, specialized AT services may require a consumer to visit the Golden Valley or Stillwater AT specialty centers for the assessment.

Independent Living Skills Assessment
Assesses current skill level in areas related to independent living. The written report includes a summary of these areas, plus recommendations for independent living goals and strategies to be used at home and in school.

Computer Assessment
Identifies a young person’s computer skills and abilities to determine their potential for learning the requirements for computer-related jobs. Recommendations for additional education or training are included in the written assessment.

References
http://www.couragecenter.org/ContentPages/assistive_technology.aspx

http://www.lanterman.org/info/guide_transition_to_adult.pdf
How does school help with transition to adulthood

http://www.atechnews.com/transitioninghsstudents.html
Transitioning High Students with Disabilities into College Programs

http://www.ipulidaho.org/tabbro/assistivetech.html
Talks about the disability and IEP's of a student

Heward, William L Exceptional Children An Introduction to Special Education, 9th edition.