Date of Award
2008
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Education
Program
Education
Supervisor
Dr. Jacqueline Specht
Abstract
The Ontario government implemented a community involvement requirement
for students to graduate from high school in 1999. There is scarce research about the enablers and barriers for students with disabilities and the overall impact of the program. A qualitative approach (i.e. 30 minute interviews) to explore the enablers and barriers from the students' perspective was initiated with students with learning disabilities. For the sample in this study there were no significant accommodations or barriers specific to having a disability. Similar to general research in this area, the program structure did impact their ability to fully participate in the community involvement experience including not knowing how to get started and a lack of time. Family and peer relationships were significant to their decisions of where to volunteer. Community service and volunteerism should be encouraged as a viable option for adolescents with disabilities to gain employment experience, social interaction and increase participation in community. The Ontario Community Involvement program
needs to be restructured to offer more support and guidance to students to provide them with the most optimal experience.
Recommended Citation
Baldwin, Michelle Leigh, "ENABLERS AND BARRIERS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES" (2008). Digitized Theses. 4766.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/digitizedtheses/4766