Adulthood transition of students with special educational needs in Portugal: Preliminary results of professionals perceptions

Abstract

Purpose of study: This paper presents preliminary results of a study that aims to understand the transition process (TP) delivered at schools for students with special educational needs (SEN).

Methods: A questionnaire was developed taking into account the following dimensions: Professional performance; TP of students with SEN, adaptations in the learning process, training pathways and TP in the labour market. Participants were 616 teachers who work in the TP.

Findings and results: Results demonstrate that there should exist closer links between schools and the community; the existed training pathways are more directed to mild SEN, and the majority of the teachers agree that there should be more local business community’s awareness to include these students as potential employees.

Conclusions and recommendations: Conclusions of this study illustrate that the access of these students to appropriate training can be fundamental in promoting professional qualification and inclusion of students with SEN.

Keywords: Transition process, individual transition plan, special educational needs.