Graduate interdisciplinary transition training at Kent State University

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to provide a program description of an interdisciplinary graduate training program at Kent State University. The program, the Transition Coordinator Training Program, trains graduate students from Special Education, Vocational Education, and Rehabilitation Counseling in an integrated curriculum format through field-based experiences. Through partnership arrangements, graduate students have opportunity to work with youths with disabilities and their families, policy makers, and professionals from the three discipline areas. The results are qualified leaders and practitioners who are versed at interdisciplinary communication and strategies; state-of-the-art models and practices for inclusion of persons with disabilities in schools, communities, and jobs; the development of collaborative relationships among service providers; and advocacy at the federal, state, and local levels. Collaborative processes and organizational components are emphasized in order to highlight the integrated and interdisciplinary aspects of the program.