A needs assessment of Extension staff to implement inclusive programming for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities

Abstract

This study is a needs assessment of Extension staff in the state of Iowa to implement inclusive programming for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Electronic surveys were completed by Extension staff on their attitudes and beliefs toward people with IDD, inclusive programming, and training needs. Results showed that Extension staff had positive views, but that staff reporting personal experience with people with IDD had more positive attitudes and beliefs (p <.05). The greatest training need was instructional techniques. The study highlights the importance of direct experience in addition to knowledge-based workshops for training Extension staff to implement inclusive programming.