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Elements for Successful Parent-Professional Collaboration: The Fundamental Things Apply As Time Goes By
Patricia H. Sheehey, University of Hawaii Manoa
Patrick E. Sheehey, University of Hawaii Manoa
Abstract
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates parent-professional collaboration. Collaboration is defined as working or acting together and seems to be a relatively straightforward concept. But difficulties between parent and professional collaboration seem to persist. These difficulties do not seem to be related to a lack of mutual respect or lack of good intentions. Perhaps difficulties exist because of a lack of common ground. Professionals’ thinking is grounded in theory from personnel preparation and on-the-job experiences. Parents’ thinking is grounded in personal experiences and information from professionals, other parents, technology, and media. This article describes a mother’s and father’s experiences over the past 25 years in a variety of settings as the parents of a child with severe disabilities and as special education professionals. They present their experiences in special education as parents and provide suggestions for parents and professionals to develop an effective collaborative relationship.
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