Resource Library

The exponential growth of inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs in the United States has reshaped transition pathways for many young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). However, limited research pertains to the admissions process and eligibility criteria of IPSE programs, leading to a lack of knowledge of how to best equip students for successful entry into college.

ThinkUDL is a podcast about Universal Design for Learning where they converse with the people who are designing and implementing strategies in post-secondary settings with learner variability in mind. Host Lillian Nave, discovers not just WHAT her guests are teaching, learning, guiding and facilitating, but HOW they design and implement it, and WHY it even matters.

In this article, published in the British Journal of Learning Disabilities, the authors present findings from 13 years of data on postsecondary education programs for students with intellectual disability. Since 2010, there has been significant growth in the United States in the number of students with intellectual disability accessing higher education, driven by federal legislation and funding. Currently, over 340 institutions of higher education provide programs of study for students with intellectual disability.

Use these resources for doing state-level advocacy and education about higher education opportunities for students with intellectual disability. Each resource is intended for a specific purpose and they can be used together or individually. Print these documents and use them to advocate with state policymakers. Some have blank spaces that you can customize with information about yourself or your state.

Hosted by the Tarjan Center at UCLA in March 2024, this virtual webinar was led by Lori Cooney, program director of Inclusive Education and Curriculum Design at the

Co-authored by Lori Cooney, Co-PI of Future Quest Island-Explorations, this peer-reviewed journal article highlights how technology can enhance learning for all students, including those with disabilities, and support educators in various educational settings. It discusses the Stepping-Up Technology Implementation initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, which focuses on integrating evidence-based tech tools into K-12 classrooms and early childhood education.

“Student Perspective: Using AI to Create Individualized, Accessible Reading Materials,” a PowerPoint presentation by Sarah Chew and Bridget Brown, with Marissa Bloodgood and

This webinar was held December 11, 2024, and discussed the dignity of risk and how this approach can empower college students with intellectual disability. The webinar focused on the importance of supporting students’ ability to make their own choices and encouraging independence. Participants learned how manageable risks help students grow and fully experience college life. The session also explored the community life engagement approach, which helps ensure students with disability are included in all aspects of campus life.

Since the Higher Education Opportunity Act was passed in 2008, more students with intellectual disability have been able to attend inclusive college programs in the United States. One challenge many students face when they arrive on campus is learning how to get around on their own.

College Matters Florida has released a video highlighting what inclusive postsecondary education can look like across the state. Administrators from Broward College, Santa Fe College, and the University of South Florida share why college matters for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and how their participation strengthens campus culture. This is a must-see resource for any college exploring, or even unsure about, starting an inclusive college program.