Dana+Swartz

===The video clips this week were especially helpful in showcasing different models of self-advocacy and person centered planning. The [|Get out of the Box]video brought the idea of transition to light in a much different way than we have seen in past weeks. In particular, the “actor” did a great job of modeling language for individuals with disabilities to use. I found both sides to be very interesting, because the “actor” was able to convey the defeatist attitude felt by so many, but she was then able to turn her parents’ reactions on their heads by displaying how well she had thought through her decision to move out and take on more responsibility. By providing examples of effective language that focus on a specific timeline and ways that the individual plans to seek out specific support services, this clip is incredibly empowering, not only for individuals with disabilities, but also for their caretakers. ===
 * Dana Swartz ** **Self-Advocacy and Person Centered Planning **

===What also struck me from this week's module was the role that the MAPS and PATH programs have on individuals with disabilities. [|Sabine's]story shed great light on the ways in which a support system can come together to help an individual navigate the often daunting task of becoming a self advocate. As we observed, while MAPS provides students, families, and support systems with a vision, PATH can allow students to really bring a student's goals to fruition by creating overarching goals, outlining steps to accomplish these goals, and following through with students to determine how effective they are in reaching these goals. One of my former colleagues often says, "hoping is not a strategy," and he's right! For me, this motto rang clearly in the difference between MAPS and PATH, in that PATH truly allows students to effect change in their lives by designing a personalized plan that (hopefully) will work for them. PATH is also beneficial as it allows room for error, exploration, and collaboration in a fairly safe context. ===



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