Becoming a self-determined individual involves learning about oneself, including one’s strengths and interests. It involves using this knowledge to make decisions and then communicating effectively to establish oneself as the primary agent in moving forward toward goal setting, attainment of those goals and greater independence. Students with complex communication needs (CCN) associated with severe speech and physical impairments (SSPI) express their individuality using multi-modal communication strategies and devices and assert their independence with the necessary assistive technology devices and supports in place. This section contains several resources and tools to aid in a deeper understanding of self-determination.
