Perceptions of Student Involvement in the Construction of their own IEP' s

Abstract

Based on the fact that students are often not included in the construction of their own Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and objectives, the researcher developed the question; Are students more likely to achieve the criteria listed in their IEPs when they are involved in construction of their goals and objectives? The researcher distributed surveys to students, parents and teachers in order to draw conclusions regarding each group of participants' perceptions on whether or not students should be involved in their own IEP meetings. After collecting and reviewing the data, the researcher concluded that both parents' and teachers' perceptions seemed to be focused on the age of students and if they are in fact ready to participate in the construction of their own goals and objectives. For the most part, students were in favor of being a part of their own IEP planning. This study is critical in the field of special education because it is important that students with disabilities are able to achieve their IEP goals and objectives.