Driver's Education for Students with Physical Disabilities

Abstract

Although driving has a great impact on employment, self-esteem, and quality of life for adolescents, students with physical disabilities are not considered for driving programs in secondary schools. Such exclusion forces students to seek alternative driving programs, which are costly and difficult to locate. No studies have examined the perceptions of students with physical disabilities regarding the process of learning to drive. This study used qualitative interviews to develop an understanding of such perceptions. Results indicated participants felt driving would add freedom, independence, and responsibility to their lives and increase their educational, employment, and recreational choices. Most participants indicated they preferred to be included in high school driver's education. Personal experiences revealed that enrollment in that class was either delayed or not presented as an option.