2013

This work is a program evaluation of an academic coaching program for students with disabilities at a four year university. In reviewing the existing literature pertaining to the effectiveness of academic coaching programs on retention rates for students with disabilities, the authors noticed that such studies are scarce. The literature base primarily details the difficulties inherent in the postsecondary experience for students with disabilities. Like so many other areas in disability studies and support, there is more data about the problems than the solutions per se. Given what we know about the importance of achieving a postsecondary degree as a gateway to increased employment opportunities, higher salary, and greater career satisfaction, it is surprising that more effort is not focused on detailing the programs that might contribute to better retention rates for students with disabilities through to graduation.