THE INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM PROCESS THROUGH THE LENS OF PARENTS OF SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS

Abstract

ABSTRACT Tillman Jr., Glenn., “The individualized educational program process through the lens of parents of special education students.” Doctoral Dissertation, Houston Christian University, May 2024 The world is full of parents of special education students who do not know how to support their children ​through the individualized​ educational ​program (IEP) process.​ The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act was designed to create a shared decision-making process whereas parental involvement is at the forefront of the IEP process. This quantitative study sought ​the perspective of parents of​ special education students regarding their comprehension of the IEP process in public schools in the United States. Past research explained it is imperative to focus on skills and resources for parents of special education students to adequately support their children. The variables were ​the perceptions parents of​ special education students ​have about the​ IEP process. Parents use their high or low self-efficacy skills in preparing their child for adulthood. ​The study’s research questions​ were designed to assist parents with the IEP process. The online survey was given between September 2023 and December 2023 to gather feedback from parents of special education students about their past experiences. A total of 46 qualified participants participated in the survey. The key finding is parents of special education students do not know how to support their child in the educational learning environment. Parent/guardian viewpoints consisted of the obstacles faced and strengths ​of the IEP process. Parents​ and guardians spoke on what made their child successful and what barriers they faced when working toward a successful IEP. ​The answers in the survey reflected the overall satisfaction of the Individualized Educational Plan. The experiences and processes have been proven to work when all parties of the IEP Team work together.​ ​​KEYWORDS: Special education, Individualized Education Plan​ (IEP), parental support, IDEA, IEP, team members, transition, English language learners, parent culture, and parental self-efficacy