Professional Preparedness and Perspectives on Transition for Individuals Who Are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing

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This article presents results from a large-scale study of professionals who work with individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. Participants were 1,345 professionals who work in a variety of roles, including educators, administrators, interpreters, vocational rehabilitation agency staff, and allied service providers. Participants shared their perspectives on transition experiences for individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, as well as their own preparedness to support their clients through this process. Data come from a national survey, interviews, and focus groups. Results demonstrate that professionals’ years of experience was a significant predictor of multiple outcomes, even when controlling for characteristics of professionals and their clients. Discussion includes implications of these findings for practice and areas for future research.

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