The Marriage of Policy, Practices, and Data to Achieve Educational Reform

Ongoing Transformation in the Field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Taking Action for Future Progress

There has been a significant transformation in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) over the last 5 decades. Although this transformation has profoundly influenced multiple stakeholders, the field is currently at a critical juncture and facing a number of social and political challenges. Given the relevance of the question, "where is the field of IDD and where do we go," the present article describes the field's transformation, and suggests future action steps to facilitate and sustain the transformation. The seven action steps discussed in the article relate to using precise terminology, incorporating a functional and holistic approach to IDD, embracing the supports model and evidence-based practices, implementing outcome evaluation, empowering individuals and families, understanding better the multidimensional properties of context, and incorporating an explicit notion of professional responsibility.

Enhancing research practices in intellectual and developmental disabilities through person-centered outcome evaluation

BACKGROUND

Research practices in IDD need to align current values towards people with IDD, the current understanding of IDD, and best practices regarding change strategies and valued outcomes.

AIMS

To describe the components to-and application of-a person-centered outcome evaluation model that meets the above criteria.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

A person-centered evaluation logic model is used to identify and describe a conceptual framework (input), a change strategy (throughput), personal outcomes (outcome), and meaningful impacts (output).

OUTCOMES AND RESULTS

Specific person-centered outcomes and exemplary outcome indicators are presented for two outcome evaluation frameworks: human functioning dimensions, and the four theoretical perspectives on IDD: biomedical, psychoeducational, sociocultural, and justice.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

A person-centered approach to outcome evaluation enhances research practices in IDD by identifying and assessing valued personal outcomes that align current values, understanding, and best practices; increases transparency; facilitates accountability; and expands understanding.