Mind The Gap: A Synthesis Of Research On The Theory Of The Mind Differences In Autism And Educational Bridging Strategies,
2026
Bethel University
Mind The Gap: A Synthesis Of Research On The Theory Of The Mind Differences In Autism And Educational Bridging Strategies, Christopher K. Hansen
All Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This master’s thesis analyzes “Theory of the Mind” (how we understand other people’s thoughts) through a neurodiversity affirming lens. Rather than looking at autism as a one-sided social flaw, this paper explores the idea that communication gaps occur because neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals naturally speak different social languages. This literature review examines how forcing autistic students to mask their natural traits causes academic frustration and emotional and mental exhaustion. This can also cause anxiety and lead to depression. Part of this paper focuses on translating these findings into practical bridging strategies for the classroom, using a variety of approaches to …
Equity And Inclusion For Students With Disabilities In Spanish Immersion Programs,
2026
Bethel University
Equity And Inclusion For Students With Disabilities In Spanish Immersion Programs, Karla C. Sindt
All Electronic Theses and Dissertations
As Spanish immersion programs continue to expand, more students with disabilities are participating in bilingual educational settings. Although research has demonstrated the academic, linguistic, and cognitive benefits of bilingual education, limited attention has been given to how these programs effectively support bilingual learners with disabilities. This literature review synthesizes research on Spanish immersion, bilingual learner development, disability identification, and inclusive instructional practices to examine how bilingual education and special education intersect. The review identifies strategies that promote equitable access, meaningful participation, and academic success for bilingual learners with disabilities in Spanish immersion environments. The literature highlights the importance of culturally …
Supporting Success In Collegiate Student-Athletes With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Coaching, Accommodations, And Mental Health Supports,
2026
Bethel University
Supporting Success In Collegiate Student-Athletes With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Coaching, Accommodations, And Mental Health Supports, Sharon Marcella Miller
All Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This literature review examines the support needed to promote the academic, athletic, social, and psychological success of collegiate athletes with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)—research related to autism in higher education, mental health, and sensory processing disability accommodations. New diversity and coaching practices will be synthesized to identify common barriers and effective support strategies. Findings indicate that successful outcomes are less focused on the autism diagnosis itself and more focused on accessibility, communication, relationships, organizational culture, and practices surrounding the athlete. Direct communication, individualized accommodations, psychological safety, predictable routines, sensory-informed practices, and collaboration among coaches, disability service professionals, athletic trainers, mental …
The Impact Of Special Education Inclusion On The Academic And Social Development Of Students With Disabilities,
2026
Bethel University
The Impact Of Special Education Inclusion On The Academic And Social Development Of Students With Disabilities, Sarah Phoebe Phelps
All Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Research of special education inclusion in mainstream classrooms indicated that it can enhance the academic and social development of students with disabilities, and that it could also make a positive impact on the peers without disabilities. However, there is continued concern regarding teacher readiness, resource limitations, and the appropriateness of full inclusion for students with significant disabilities. To create a successful inclusive classroom, teachers need support, proven strategies, and the implementation of the strategies. This literature review will look at the successes and challenges of inclusive education as a whole, and highlight the evolution of exclusive practices to the current …
Educator Understanding Of Mtss: A Quantitative Descriptive Study,
2026
Northern Illinois University
Educator Understanding Of Mtss: A Quantitative Descriptive Study, Danielle Valiente
Dissertations of Practice
Multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) require coordinated implementation across the full educator workforce. This study examined MTSS knowledge and self-reported understanding across the Illinois educator workforce to identify the specific knowledge gaps a targeted professional learning solution would need to address. Using a quantitative descriptive design, 208 Illinois public school educators across 16 job roles and four experience bands completed an online survey consisting of an eleven-item true/false knowledge assessment, a ten-item multiple-choice knowledge assessment, and a 10-item Likert self-report inventory. Data were disaggregated by job role and by years of professional experience. Educators demonstrated strong understanding of MTSS structural …
Engaging Exceptional Learners: Applied Learning Frameworks As A Foundation For Autonomy In Secondary Special Education,
2026
Bethel University
Engaging Exceptional Learners: Applied Learning Frameworks As A Foundation For Autonomy In Secondary Special Education, Lisa Chovan-Spence
All Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Students with mild disabilities are transitioning from high school into the world of work inadequately prepared, even after completing the required transition measures laid out in their Individual Education Programs (IEPs). The transition gap could be remedied by increasing experiential learning opportunities within the core curriculum. Foundational educational psychology and cognitive science validate the use of experiential teaching pedagogies. However, less is written about the use of experiential learning methods in special education and their ability to better prepare students with disabilities (SWD) for this transition. The benefits of experiential learning teaching strategies, such as their propensity to build students' …
Modeling Hazard Perception Learning In Novice Drivers With Autism: A Multimodal Simulation-Based Study,
2026
University of Central Florida
Modeling Hazard Perception Learning In Novice Drivers With Autism: A Multimodal Simulation-Based Study, Erik J. Sand
Graduate Studies Theses and Dissertations 2026
Young drivers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often demonstrate difficulties with road-surveillance behaviors such as scanning ahead, monitoring mirrors, and identifying emerging hazards. These challenges can increase crash risk, particularly for adolescents with limited driving experience. This study explored whether a simple, video-game–based hazard-training program could improve hazard detection performance, visual scanning, and self-regulation in this population. Five participants aged 15–18 years, each identified by a parent as having ASD and possessing either a learner’s permit or no license, completed sequential Baseline, three Treatment, and Withdrawal phases using the SpeedLimit driving simulation. The study employed a single-case experimental design with …
Addressing The Void Of Ai Policies In Education For Students With Specific Learning Disabilities,
2026
Illinois State University
Addressing The Void Of Ai Policies In Education For Students With Specific Learning Disabilities, Mikyung Shin, Fatmana Deniz, Latesha Watson, Cynthia Dieterich, Kathy B. Ewoldt, Friggita Johnson, Jennifer E. Kong, Sun Hee Lee, April Whitehurst
Faculty Publications - College of Education
The purpose of this study was to identify the current state of artificial intelligence (AI) policies in U.S. education and propose actionable recommendations through large language model–based topic modeling and Delphi surveys. Out of 12 policy documents released between 2015 and 2025, only two documents (National Center for Learning Disabilities, 2024; W.A. v. Clarksville/Montgomery County School System, 2024) specifically addressed learning disabilities. Policy documents addressing topics such as AI-driven risk assessment, data protection, legal risk management, and ethical guidelines covering other disabilities and general AI in education policy were provided as baselines that could be discussed and validated through …
Another Day's Journey: Birthing Brilliance Through Culturally Relevant/Responsive/Sustaining Pedagogies,
2026
Georgia Southern University
Another Day's Journey: Birthing Brilliance Through Culturally Relevant/Responsive/Sustaining Pedagogies, Letitice Johnson
College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations
This dissertation examines the implementation of culturally relevant/responsive/sustaining mathematics using hip-hop pedagogy with special education students. The theoretical frameworks for this include with Culturally Relevant Pedagogy (Ladson-Billings, 1995), Culturally Responsive Teaching (Gay, 2018), and Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy (Paris & Alim, 2014). Utilizing an autobiographical case study methodology, I examined the use of culturally relevant math tasks and hip-hop pedagogy with 3rd grade students with disabilities. From this study, the following findings emerged: (1). Learning environments characterized by hope, empathy, and critical agency can be cultivated through the use of community resources and structured classroom norms that promote support, collaboration, …
Wired For Inclusion: Leveraging Strengths Of Neurodivergent Special Educators,
2026
Murray State University
Wired For Inclusion: Leveraging Strengths Of Neurodivergent Special Educators, Brok Hess, Teresa Clark Ed.D.
Murray State Theses and Dissertations
Special education teachers face unique challenges, and neurodivergent special educators possess distinctive strengths that can allow them to excel in the classroom. However, barriers, stigma, and ableism persist that have prevented neurodivergent individuals from accessing this career, receiving support, and thriving as special educators. Self-efficacy and executive functioning both correlate to success and retention within education. This research analyzed the relationship between special education teachers’ self-efficacy and executive functioning, specifically among neurodivergent special educators. Results concluded that a significant positive correlation exists between neurodivergent special education teachers’ executive functioning and self-efficacy. Attention to these results will highlight the importance of …
Comprehensive Postsecondary Transition Planning For Students With Intellectual Disability In Florida,
2026
Murray State University
Comprehensive Postsecondary Transition Planning For Students With Intellectual Disability In Florida, Sonia Y. Clark-Rosier
Murray State Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the impact of early transition planning on parents’ postsecondary expectations for their child with an intellectual disability and to examine the benefits of planning, particularly when considering higher education opportunities. This study also probed the factors that contribute to the development of self-efficacy in special education teachers facilitating comprehensive transition planning. Schlossberg’s transition theory, with its four S’s—situation, support, self, and strategies—served as the theoretical framework. The data collection methods were document analysis, focus groups with special education teachers, high school teachers, and parents, and researcher observations. Seven themes emerged to …
What Makes A Family: Steepparent's Experiences Supporting Children With Autism In School Systems,
2026
University of the Pacific
What Makes A Family: Steepparent's Experiences Supporting Children With Autism In School Systems, Veronica Barrera
University of the Pacific Theses and Dissertations
This qualitative multiple case study explored the lived experiences of stepparents of children with autism spectrum disorder, examining how they navigate their roles within school and family systems during early elementary years (kindergarten through second grade). Despite the increasing prevalence of blended families, stepparent perspectives remain largely absent from research. Stepparents often occupy ambiguous legal and social positions that limit their access to educational information and participation in IEP meetings and school decision-making. Two stepparents of children with Level 1 autism participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using inductive coding and thematic analysis, with narrative restorying to preserve participants’ …
Students Can't Access Education Without Being There: A Systematic Look Into One School's Approach To Improve Access,
2026
Portland State University
Students Can't Access Education Without Being There: A Systematic Look Into One School's Approach To Improve Access, Shawn A. Bernard
Educational Leadership Professional Doctorate Dissertations
This improvement science dissertation focused on understanding and reducing the frequency of out-of-classroom removal of students exhibiting challenging behavior in one elementary school. Classroom removals result in lost instruction and reduced access to the general education environment. Baseline data indicated an average of 27.8 classroom removals per day, reflecting a systemic issue impacting both student outcomes and staff capacity. The goal was to reduce classroom removals to fewer than 10 per day by June 2026. The leadership team conducted a root cause analysis to inform a theory of improvement grounded in positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS). The team selected …
Digital Texts And Diversity-Sensitive Foreign Language Teaching,
2025
Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
Digital Texts And Diversity-Sensitive Foreign Language Teaching, Anne-Marie Lachmund, Manuela Franke
Journal of Media Literacy Education
Digital reading differs significantly from reading on paper, posing several challenges, especially for students learning a second or third foreign language. The complexity of engaging with authentic digital sources is further intensified by the diversity within learner groups. First, the objectives for developing digital reading proficiency in a foreign language are explored, identifying the skills necessary for competent digital readers. Building on these objectives, the paper then addresses the diverse needs of learners, taking into account neurodiverse students in diversity-sensitive teaching environments. The focus lies on the field-specific dynamics of digital reading, particularly those impacting learners with ADHD, dyslexia, and …
Counselor Education And Inclusive Postsecondary Education: A Partnership Model,
2025
University of South Carolina - Columbia
Counselor Education And Inclusive Postsecondary Education: A Partnership Model, Rebecca B. Smith Hill, Alexander M. Fields, Olivia J. Lewis, Madeline Saunders, Chelsea Stinnett, Anthony Plotner, Rachel Gilreath
Teaching and Supervision in Counseling
Researchers in the counseling field have alerted practitioners and counselor education professionals to the need for enhanced training related to supporting individuals with disabilities, namely intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD; Feather & Carlson, 2019). As more individuals with IDD attend college, these emerging adults are specifically in need of counselors with skills and competencies to support their mental health. This paper describes a collaborative, mutually beneficial initiative between a counselor education program and an inclusive postsecondary education program to address the scarcity of personnel prepared to work with individuals with IDD.
Effectiveness Of Picture Exchange Communication System On Functional Communication For Saudi Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asd),
2025
Duquesne University
Effectiveness Of Picture Exchange Communication System On Functional Communication For Saudi Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asd), Mohammed Albahrani
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by restricted interests, repetitive or inflexible behaviors, and challenges with communication and socialization (Flannery & Wisner-Carlson, 2020). Children with expressive communication disorders, including those with ASD, can benefit from using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) as a tool to improve their communication skills (Chazin et al., 2016). The AAC approach helps them learn and communicate more effectively by addressing various needs, such as making requests, commenting, or responding to questions (Mirenda, 2001). Many families, special education classrooms, and inclusive settings have adopted the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), an evidence-based …
Hip-Hop Culture As A Catalyst For Belonging Among Black Male High School Students Who Stutter,
2025
American University
Hip-Hop Culture As A Catalyst For Belonging Among Black Male High School Students Who Stutter, Antonio L. Ellis
Journal of the Arts and Special Education
This ethnographic study explores how Hip-Hop culture fosters belonging, identity, and agency among six Black male high school students who stutter in a public charter school in Baltimore, Maryland. Grounded in culturally sustaining pedagogy, DisCrit, and Hip-Hop pedagogy, the research draws on participant observation, interviews, and field notes to examine how students use freestyling, beat-making, and cyphering as expressive tools. Findings reveal that Hip-Hop repositions stuttering as rhythmic expression, cultivates emotional safety through peer collaboration, and challenges deficit-based speech norms. Participants described Hip-Hop spaces as sites of affirmation where their voices were valued and their identities celebrated. The study calls …
Keeping It Real: Hip-Hop Based Education In A Mathematics Classroom,
2025
Penn State Erie, The Behrend College
Keeping It Real: Hip-Hop Based Education In A Mathematics Classroom, Michelle J. Cook, Elizabeth M. Hughes, Jonte C. Taylor
Journal of the Arts and Special Education
Hip-Hop based education (HHBE) infuses elements of Hip-Hop culture into teaching and learning. Growing research shows that HHBE engages students, validates students’ identities and lived experiences, and supports academic success. In this article we share how HHBE can be used in mathematics with a focus on teaching word problem solving strategies. Using vignettes and real-life examples, we illustrate how creative elements of Hip-Hop (i.e., breakdancing, graffiti art, DJing, MCing, knowledge of self) naturally enhance mathematics and word-problem solving instruction. Educators can sample/adapt strategies shared to create HHBE lessons to meet the interests of their students with disabilities. We hope that …
Hip Hop Integration With Transition Planning: Empowering Middle And High School Students For Post-Secondary Success,
2025
University of Memphis
Hip Hop Integration With Transition Planning: Empowering Middle And High School Students For Post-Secondary Success, Lasheba Hilliard, Develyn Biagas
Journal of the Arts and Special Education
This manuscript explores the integration of hip-hop pedagogy into transition planning for urban middle and high school students with disabilities. Grounded in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and aligned with Indicator 13, the paper highlights how culturally responsive strategies can amplify student voice, foster goal setting, and enhance post-secondary outcomes. By embedding hip-hop elements such as lyric reflection, storytelling, and motivational music into instruction, educators can increase student engagement across four key transition domains: post-secondary education, employment readiness, independent living, and community involvement. The framework encourages early implementation, personalized supports, and strong school-community partnerships. Practical strategies, including vision …
Examining The Effects Of Video Modeling To Enhance Culturally Specific Social Greeting Skills In Preschoolers With Asd In Saudi Arabia,
2025
Duquesne University
Examining The Effects Of Video Modeling To Enhance Culturally Specific Social Greeting Skills In Preschoolers With Asd In Saudi Arabia, Sarah Alzahrani
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
A lack of social communication skills, including initiation and responding, has been a prominent characteristic of children diagnosed with ASD (Kanner, 1943; Kroeger et al., 2007). Enhancing these skills in children with ASD during early childhood is crucial to their future relationships, friendships, participation in communal activities, and overall lowering the likelihood of adverse long-term effects, giving significance to this age as a pivotal period for enhancing various skills (Hart Barnett, 2018). Failure to provide interventions to address social communication in children with ASD, specifically in cultures that value this skill, can impede their integration into that society. Thus, this …
