The book traces the evolution of special education, examining legal frameworks like IDEA that mandate student involvement in IEPs, advocating for more inclusive, student-centered approaches. This academic self-help resource argues that explicit instruction in self-advocacy is crucial for students with learning disabilities to reach their full potential.
Did you know that students who advocate for themselves often experience increased academic achievement and improved self-esteem?
The book progresses from defining self-advocacy and understanding learning disabilities to developing practical communication strategies and goal-setting techniques. Unique in its practical approach, the book provides step-by-step guidance, lesson plans, and assessment tools for educators, parents, and students. Supported by research from educational psychology and disability studies, it demonstrates the positive impact of self-advocacy interventions. The book culminates in a discussion of the long-term benefits, including success in post-secondary education.