Finding Common Ground: Tips to Promote Self-Determination in Inclusive Contexts for High School General and Special Educators

Abstract

General and special educators encounter both barriers and facilitators as they implement whole-school interventions with fidelity to make secondary schools inclusive for students with extensive support needs (ESN). This article translates research into practice by sharing guidance from secondary general and special educators with experience implementing an evidence-based intervention designed to promote student self-determination, the Self-Determined Learning of Model of Instruction (SDLMI), providing tips on how to build an integrated system of supports that promotes self-determination for all students, inclusive of students with ESN. Tips include (a) ensuring all students have opportunities to build self-determination, (b) customizing instruction using the SDLMI, (c) aligning SDLMI instruction with academic and transition planning content, (d) finding your SDLMI community, and (e) leveraging SDLMI implementation to enhance collaboration.