By: Hedda Meadan, James R. Thompson, Mayumi Hagiwara, Julie Herold, Sarah Hoekstra, and Samantha Manser
Abstract: The Family Assessment Portfolio (FAP) is a new tool that includes scrapbooks, web-based profiles, and movies that families create to introduce their children to educators. FAP was developed to promote good home/school communication and collaboration. Although FAPs appear to be a promising practice for the field of special education, there is limited information about its social validity; the social importance of FAPs’ goals, procedures, and outcomes. To evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of the FAPs, data were collected, through interviews and questionnaires, from three groups of stakeholders: parents, FAP facilitators, and educators. Participants reported that the goals of the FAPs are important for both families and educators. The procedures for developing the FAP were considered to be appropriate and acceptable, and the final product was evaluated as very useful and meaningful. Participants also shared their perceived challenges related to the FAPs and had suggestions for improvement. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Abstract: The Family Assessment Portfolio (FAP) is a new tool that includes scrapbooks, web-based profiles, and movies that families create to introduce their children to educators. FAP was developed to promote good home/school communication and collaboration. Although FAPs appear to be a promising practice for the field of special education, there is limited information about its social validity; the social importance of FAPs’ goals, procedures, and outcomes. To evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of the FAPs, data were collected, through interviews and questionnaires, from three groups of stakeholders: parents, FAP facilitators, and educators. Participants reported that the goals of the FAPs are important for both families and educators. The procedures for developing the FAP were considered to be appropriate and acceptable, and the final product was evaluated as very useful and meaningful. Participants also shared their perceived challenges related to the FAPs and had suggestions for improvement. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.