Tri-State Webinar Series: Exploring Self-Determination: Using Theory to Guide Practice

Webinar Description:

Special education program improvement is an essential component of improving the outcomes for youth with disabilities. This session explores the application of Self-Determination Theory through tools and instructional strategies that promote self-determined behaviors at home, on the job, and in the classroom. Participants will discuss the key environmental variables that must be present in each setting, strategies to increase self-determined behavior, and common barriers students with disabilities face during their K-12 experience. Resources will be shared so practitioners can begin implementation immediately.

After attending this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Understand and apply Self-Determination Theory to the classroom, jobsite, and home

• Identify the environmental conditions that lead to the generalization of self-determination skills for students with disabilities 

• Explore free tools that help close the research to practice gap

Presenter Information:

John McNaught, PhD: John’s passion for inclusion and self-advocacy began in high school when his previously included friend disappeared into a self-contained classroom for students with ID in 9^th grade. Activism, advocacy, and connections (his mom was a teacher at the high school) led to a slow transition to a more inclusive model, and more importantly, a reunion with his friend. This experience led to John taking the long and winding road that eventually led to the creation of the I’m Determined Project in 2006. 

One constant since the 1989 inclusive uprising has been John’s passion for student voice and autonomy. I’m Determined was founded on the belief that through a foundation of competence, autonomy, and relatedness, the sky is the limit for youth with disabilities, and they are the pilot.

John was recently awarded a multi-million-dollar grant from the Virginia Department of Education to create the I’m Determined Center at James Madison University to continue the work he started back in 2006 with a dedicated staff. John’s work through I’m Determined has led to positive postschool outcomes for youth with disabilities at over 99%, far exceeding the state average of around 70%.

John’s research and evidence-based approach have led to a replicable recipe for success for students with disabilities. He has numerous published peer-reviewed manuscripts as well as a plethora of peer-reviewed national conference presentations. His passion for community inclusion, family engagement, and high expectations for students with disabilities is second to none.