Educator Perspectives on Accessing Disability-Related Information and Resources

Abstract

Familiarity with local disability information and resources can impact the ways educators support students with disabilities and their families. We surveyed 462 educators regarding their awareness of and access to disability-related information and resources. Specifically, we examined (a) their familiarity with resources and services across multiple areas, (b) the sources of information they consider to be helpful in their work, and (c) the likelihood they would draw upon new resources designed to connect them to local information and resources. Overall, educators reported mixed familiarity with resources related to supporting important student experiences (e.g., having friends, being physically healthy, participating in recreational activities) and addressing key service needs (e.g., speech therapy, behavior supports, mental health care). Familiarity tended to be higher for resources related to student experiences than for service needs. Educators considered several sources of information to be most helpful in their work, including internet searches, fellow teachers or other school staff, and conferences or workshops. We address implications for teacher training programs, state-level educational leaders, and school districts.