ERIC Number: EJ1026910
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 18
Abstractor: As Provided
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Rethinking Social Network Assessment for Students with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) in Postsecondary Education
Eisenman, Laura T.; Farley-Ripple, Elizabeth; Culnane, Mary; Freedman, Brian
Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, v26 n4 p367-384 Win 2013
Social networks of persons with intellectual disabilities (ID) have been characterized as smaller and less diverse than those of typical peers. Advocates have focused on strengthening those social networks by expanding circles of social support, protection, and friendship. As young adults with ID experience increasing levels of community integration and move into new postsecondary education environments, the nature and potential functions of their social networks may shift. We describe the development and use of a social network instrument that is intended to capture an expanded view of social networks as structures influencing career opportunities. Using data from participants in our college program for students with ID, we then describe and illustrate how social network analyses can be used to examine individuals' social networks. Finally, we discuss lessons learned from our development process and implications for social network assessment and analysis with persons who have ID in postsecondary education.
Descriptors: Higher Education, Social Networks, Mental Retardation, College Students, Transitional Programs, Social Support Groups, Student Personnel Services, Student Employment, Measures (Individuals), Demography, Student Characteristics, Protocol Analysis, Network Analysis
Association on Higher Education and Disability. 107 Commerce Center Drive Suite 204, Huntersville, NC 28078. Tel: 704-947-7779; Fax: 704-948-7779; e-mail: ahead@ahead.org; Web site: http://www.ahead.org/publications/jped
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
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Identifiers - Location: Delaware
Identifiers - Laws, Policies, & Programs: Higher Education Opportunity Act 1970
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