When advocating for a student with severe intellectual disability to participate in postsecondary education, what is the key consideration?

The key consideration in advocating for a student with severe intellectual disability to participate in postsecondary education is the student's ability to communicate effectively. Effective communication is crucial for success in any educational context, especially in postsecondary settings where the demands for interaction, understanding instructions, and expressing needs or concerns are much higher than in earlier educational experiences.

In postsecondary education, students often need to engage with instructors and peers, seek help when needed, and participate actively in discussions. If a student struggles with communication, it can significantly hinder their ability to fully engage with the curriculum and the educational community. Therefore, enhancing and evaluating a student's communication skills can lead to more successful participation in postsecondary education, making it a vital focus in advocacy efforts.

While considerations like daily routine, family background, and age may also impact a student's educational experience, they do not have the same direct correlation with the student's ability to navigate the communication demands of a postsecondary environment.