What’s in a Name? Analysis and Reflections on Naming of Postsecondary Education Programs for Students with Intellectual Disability

Abstract

Postsecondary education programs for students with intellectual disability have a variety of names. The name of a program sets the tone for families and students, and other stakeholders, of what to expect from that program. We sought to address a lack of guidance on considerations for naming a postsecondary education program for students with intellectual disability by first analyzing the names of existing programs for common words and themes. Using data from the Think College programs directory, we coded the words and themes in 310 program names. We found that acronym was the most common theme, present in 40% of all program names, and that there were some differences in the names of programs at two-year vs. four-year institutions. Based on this analysis, we offer reflections and suggestions for future practice and research.