STEPS Curriculum

Self-determination is a key component of successful transition programs. Steps to Self Determination is a curriculum designed to help secondary students learn to define and achieve goals that are important to them. The curriculum addresses five key elements of self-determination.

Major areas included in the curriculum include identifying strengths, weaknesses, needs, and preferences; decision-making skills; rights and responsibilities, goal setting; anticipating consequences; creativity; communication skills; accessing resources and support; negotiation skills; and experiencing and learning from outcomes.

Actively setting and working toward goals is emphasized in the curriculum and is central to the activities students complete between class sessions. The curriculum is designed to be used with students with and without disabilities in a variety of scheduling arrangements. The 16-session curriculum can be scheduled as part of an existing course, as an extracurricular activity, or as a specially arranged group. Teachers are encouraged to participate in the curriculum as co-learners with the students. Parents or other significant support persons in the students' lives also are encouraged to be involved in the curriculum with the students at key points.

A few examples of the 16 sessions included in the Instructor's Guide are:

Dreaming to Open Possibilities

What Is Important to Me?

Creating Options for Long- Term Goals

Setting Goals

Steps to Reach Goals

Planning Activities

Taking the First Step

Assertive Communication

Assertive Negotiation

Conflict Resolution

Steps to Self-Determination is published by ProEd, 8700 Shoal Creek Blvd. Austin, TX. 78757. Tel: 512/451-3246 Fax: 512/451-8542