Literacy Learning Among Students With Complex Support Needs in Postsecondary Education Programs: A Scoping Literature Review

Abstract

Although valuable for an individual's quality of life and participation in society, many individuals with complex support needs (CSN) do not receive appropriate literacy instruction. Recent expansion of postsecondary education opportunities for individuals with CSN offers new opportunities for continued literacy skill development (e.g., participation in coursework, employment, social activities). This scoping review explored existing research to understand how students with CSN experience literacy learning opportunities in postsecondary education. Results reveal a need for future research to include as participants individuals who are reading at pre-first grade levels and to investigate opportunities to acquire or develop literacy skills for these students within inclusive university classes with students who do not have disabilities. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.