Education Commons^™

Professional Development Strategies For Treating People With Idd And Mental Health Needs, Jennifer L. Mclaren, Elizabeth Grosso, Karen L. Weigle

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience significant health and mental health inequities and difficulties accessing care. There are few initiatives that train mental health professionals to care and advocate for the health and mental health care needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

We developed a Mental Health and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Professional Learning Community (PLC) with Clinical Education Teams (CET) training components through The National Center for START (Systemic-Therapeutic-Assessment-Resources-Treatment) Services^® to further educate providers in the United States. The National Center for START Services^® utilizes multiple training and collaboration forums to build the …

Peer-Mediated Family Support Project: Evaluation Of Changes In Family Quality Of Life, Preethy S. Samuel, Elizabeth Janks, Nia S. Anderson, Michael Bray, Christina Topolewski, Sharon Milberger

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

The Family Quality of Life (FQOL) approach represents a paradigm shift from fixing to supporting people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) by changing the focus from the individual to the family and highlighting strengths rather than deficiencies. Aging family caregivers of individuals with I/DD often encounter obstacles, including accessibility, acceptability, and affordability of services. Little is known about best practices to support aging families of adults with I/DD. Understanding how a state-wide peer-mediated family support project implemented in this study helped improve the FQOL of aging caregivers is important in broadening participation of other caregivers in these types of programs. To …

Interdisciplinary Treatment Approach To Youth With Intellectual Or Developmental Disabilities And Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions, Ashley Greenwald, Erika Ryst, Diane D. Thorkildson, Lauren Brown

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

Many individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (IDD) have co-occurring mental health needs, yet service delivery options often do not allow for the integrated delivery of mental health treatment and social behavioral support services. Siloed treatment approaches often result in lack of collaboration between providers, increasing the difficulty in accessing comprehensive and coordinated treatments and reducing treatment potential and effective outcomes. Additionally, many service providers in behavioral support services are not trained to address significant mental health needs; similarly, providers of mental health services lack experience in modifying practices for differing cognitive needs. The lack of cross-training and cross-collaboration makes …

Outcomes Of Virtual Diabetes Cook Along Classes, April Litchford, Jenna Dyckman, Cindy Jenkins, Andrea Schmutz, Carrie Durward

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

USU Extension Diabetes Cook Along classes provide diabetes education to the public while removing barriers to participation. These classes teach relevant topics through hands-on activities to increase participants’ ability to effectively self-manage their diabetes symptoms. Evaluation results show that participants experienced high satisfaction (86%) and substantial knowledge gain (92%) after the classes.

Nourishtank: An Innovative Program On Solving Hunger, Palak Gupta, Ashley Sullivan, Kristin Hoch, Lea Palmer, Jocelin Gibson, Mateja Savoie-Roskos, Heidi Leblanc

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

NourishTank, a Shark Tank-style event, saw students propose food and nutrition insecurity solutions. Twenty-eight students formed 11 teams, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. The winning idea, 'Farm2Fork Gone Mobile,' earned $1,000 toward their proposed project. NourishTank, through partnerships and media, highlights student-driven efforts combating food insecurity and raising awareness.

Assessing Parent And Guardian Outcomes For The Be Epic, Escape The Vape Program In Rural Southeast Utah, Ashley C. Yaugher, Christina Pay, Josie Hatch, Cris Meier

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

Be Epic is a multi-component youth vape prevention program for rural youth, teachers, and parents. Annual parent/guardian events provide vape prevention education during a single session. Evaluation results showed that the program led to an increase in parents' knowledge and intention to talk with their youth about e-cigarettes.

Balancing Agriculture And Wildlife: The Impact Of Elk And Deer Grazing On Farming And Ranching Lands, Ethan Gilliam, Anna Gilliam, Jody Gale

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

This article examines producers' perceptions of elk and deer grazing on their lands through a survey conducted at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) National Conference. With 140 complete responses, the study underscores the varying impacts of elk/deer grazing. The findings emphasize the need for enhanced collaboration between agricultural stakeholders and wildlife management authorities to address wildlife grazing impacts effectively. These findings also address the critical opinion of producers toward wildlife inside and outside of their private operations, as well as the interactions between producers and wildlife authorities.

Acknowledgments, Matt Wappett

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

No abstract provided.

Advancing Strength-Based Inclusive Mental Health Research In Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Luther Kalb, Joan B. Beasley

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

No abstract provided.

Book Review Rural Education In America: What Works For Our Students, Teachers, And Communities, Sunshine L. Brosi, Marilyn M. Cuch, Spencer Spotted Elk, Julie Stevens, Gustavo A. Ovando-Montejo

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version of this article here.

Book review of Marietta, G. & S. Marietta. (2020). Rural Education in America, What works for our students, teachers, and communities, Harvard Education Press. Statewide faculty teaching in rural Utah review this book and focus on actions to meet the specific needs of their demographic of rural students in rural communities. The reviewer’s reflections on the book developed from a Spring 2022 Empowering Teaching Excellence Learning Circle led by the primary author.

Evaluating Active Lecture And Traditional Lecture In Higher Education, Kathleen Klein, Jennifer Calabrese, Adam Aguiar, Sunny Mathew, Kimoni Ajani, Rania Almajid, Jennifer Aarons

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version of this article here.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of traditional and active lecture methods in higher-education courses. A multiple group convergent parallel mixed method design was used, with measurement of learning, attention, and student preference for active or traditional lecture methods. Six faculty at a public university in the northeast region of the United States engaged 178 undergraduate and graduate students in a traditional lecture session and an active lecture session during the Spring 2022 semester. Results indicated effectiveness of active and traditional lecture approaches (p < .05). Analysis of qualitative and quantitative data in the study provides additional information regarding student preference for active lecture based on perceptions of increased learning benefits, interaction/engagement, attention, activities, discussion, and the use of multimedia. In implementing both traditional and active lecture sessions this study employed pre-lecture and post-lecture quizzes that students found to be very beneficial to learning.

Teaching Reproducibility To First Year College Students: Reflections From An Introductory Data Science Course, Brennan L. Bean

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version of this article here.

Modern technology threatens traditional modes of classroom assessment by providing students with automated ways to write essays and take exams. At the same time, modern technology continues to expand the accessibility of computational tools that promise to increase the potential scope and quality of class projects. This paper presents a case study where students are asked to complete a “reproducible” final project in an introductory data science course using the R programming language. A reproducible project is one where an instructor can easily regenerate the results and conclusions from the submitted …

Preservice Teacher Education Preparation: Implementation Of Personalized Learning And Technology Integration In The Fifth Industrial Revolution, Crystal C. Loose, Rose Jagielo-Manion

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version of this article here.

It has been argued that we have moved into the age of personalization. One can see this while ordering drinks at a local Starbucks, where options are limitless. This personalization has been called the Fifth Industrial Revolution, a time noted for a deep, multi-level cooperation between people and machines. With emphasis on innovation, purpose, and inclusivity, this revolution calls for changes in the classroom setting to focus on relationships and lived experiences. So, how do we prepare our preservice teachers for this reality? Methods of instruction that create an engaging and …

Adapting Interteaching To A Hybrid Format: A Framework For Implementation, Carmen Farrell

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version of this article here.

In the world of higher education, expectations of college-level instructors have shifted significantly in the last few years due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. Instructors were required to be more flexible than ever before, oftentimes across different modalities. This essay models an evidence-based teaching method, interteaching (IT), that was originally created for use in a traditional face-to-face classroom and suggests an adaptation of that method for a hybrid classroom. The theoretical framework of IT is explained and an adaptation of IT for hybrid classrooms is provided with a specific college-level course …

Introduction For Fall 2023 Issue, Jason Olsen

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version of this introduction here.

An introduction to the Fall 2023 issue of the Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence.

Full Issue: Journal On Empowering Teaching Excellence, Volume 7, Issue 2, Fall 2023

Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

The full-length Fall 2023 issue (Volume 7, Issue 2) of the Journal on Empowering Teaching Excellence

Access the online Pressbooks version (with downloadable EPUB format) here.

The Fall 2023 issue presents research and guidance on topics related to educational adaptation. The first article by C. Farrell describes an adaptation of the interteaching method to the hybrid delivery method. The second article by C. C. Loose and R. Jagielo-Manion describes a study of modules on personalized learning to preservice teachers and its impact on their comfort level and preparation to implement personalized learning in their classrooms. The third article by B. …

Urban Homestead Education For Backyard Gardeners In Utah, Andree Walker Bravo

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

The Utah State University Extension Urban Homestead Expo caters to individuals and families interested in maximizing their self-sufficiency while living in an urban setting. The Urban Homestead Expo is designed to provide content to those wanting more than basic gardening classes, but who may not identify as producers. Workshops include backyard chickens, fruit production, water-wise irrigation, beekeeping, vegetable-integrated pest management, water harvesting, and other sustainability-related topics.

Addressing The Opioid Crises: An Evaluation Of The Community Opioid Education Pilot Program, Gabriela Murza, Cris Meier, Lily Ward, Sydney O'Shay, Dru Faldmo

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

Utah's opioid crisis presents unique challenges as progress was hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic. This pilot study assessed the effectiveness of a brief webinar-based professional development program aimed at improving knowledge and confidence among health and behavioral healthcare professionals. Results indicated positive changes in participants' confidence and knowledge regarding opioid treatment options, misuse, and connecting individuals to resources.

Create Healthy Gardens: Evaluation Of A Snap-Ed And Master Gardener Collaboration, Emma Parkhurst, Lacee Jiminez, Sheriden M. Hansen, Kristi Strongo, Heidi Leblanc

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

A multidisciplinary team established the Davis County Create Healthy Gardens (CHG) program to improve access to fresh produce and help low-income residents gain skills to grow food and prepare nourishing meals. An evaluation of the program shows that participants had access to over 275 pounds of fresh produce, and most participants reported an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption. They also reported an increase in their knowledge in gardening and food preparation.

Impact Of An Opioid Harm Reduction Consortium: Emergency And Justice Engagement, Maren Wright Wright Voss, Gabriele Ciciurkaite, Matthew Huntington, Melissa Flint, Emily Hamilton, Jennifer Peatross

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

Utah State University Extension engaged first responders and law enforcement officials in a consortium to identify local needs related to opioid use disorder (OUD). To this end, the Tooele Opioid Response Network (TORN) conducted three first-responder harm reduction summits to meet local overdose prevention needs. The initiative trained over 200 personnel, which resulted in an 87.5% increase in knowledge related to harm reduction. TORN also facilitated the acquisition of $90,000 in funding for jail-based opioid medication and the disbursement of 400 naloxone kits and training to incarcerated persons at discharge.

Preparing Youth For Civic Life And Leadership: Evaluating The Washington County 4-H Youth Officer Program, Paul A. Hill, Katarina J. Aikens

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

The Washington County 4-H Youth Officer Program was designed to address youth preparedness for civic life in a democratic society. This program is targeted to students in grades 6-8th, who are at a critical stage in their development as citizens. The program emphasizes experiential learning, which allows youth to learn by doing as they deliver public speeches, visit with elected officials, and facilitate business meetings using Roberts Rules of Order. A total of 24 youth participants completed the program over two years. Evaluation results showed the program was successful in achieving student learning outcomes, with significant improvements in citizenship knowledge …

A Scoping Review Of Health Research With Racially/Ethnically Minoritized Adults With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Heather J. Williamson, Tara Chico-Jarillo, Samantha Sasse, Leticia Rennie, Jennifer R. Etcitty, Carol L. Howe, Michele Sky Lee, Julie S. Armin

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

Living with intersectional identities, having a disability, and being a member of a racial or ethnic minoritized group in the U.S., contributes to marginalization that may result in health disparities and health inequities. The purpose of this scoping review is to describe health research regarding adult racial/ethnic minoritized individuals in the U.S with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Eight electronic databases were searched to identify literature on the topic published since 2000. Of the 5,229 records, 35 articles were included in the review. Eligible studies included research conducted in the U.S., published in English, and research focused on adults with …

Differences Among Family And Professional Guardians: A Statewide Survey Of Characteristics, Training, And Practices Related To Decision-Making, Kristin Hamre, Derek Nord

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

This cross-sectional study sought to examine the differences between family and professional guardians across personal and role characteristics, training received, and their inclusion of people they serve in decision making. A total of 237 subjects serving as guardian to adults in the state of Indiana completed an online survey. Results showed group differences across race, education, as well as diagnosis and age of those served. Overall, training was limited across both groups, and family guardians received significantly less training across several topics. Finally, family and professional guardians were found to significantly differ in their willingness to allow people they serve …

Reimagining Disability: A Call To Action, Paritosh Joshi, Julia Pappageorge

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

This article focuses on how the medical profession, organizations, and universities should incorporate the social model of disability into their regulations and policies to advance justice for individuals with disabilities. Traditionally, disability has been viewed through the medical model, which postulates that one’s individual body or mind is medically impaired and diminishes the person’s quality of life. The model overemphasizes individual difference or disability diagnosis as something that should be treated at an individual level through medical intervention, and ignores social factors that impact the development of physical and mental conditions. Moreover, this pervasive attitude towards disability permeates institutions and …

Reaching Consensus On The Future Direction Of A Resource Center Within A Ucedd: A Quality Improvement Delphi Project, Emily J. Hickey Phd, Amy D. Whitehead Mpa, Rachel Weingarten Bs, Leann Smith Dawalt Phd

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families need access to timely, quality information and assistance about relevant services and supports. Despite statewide systems of information and assistance for this population, there is a need for “in-the-moment” assistance for individuals and family members who participate in on-site research, training and or service delivery at the Waisman Center. The aim of this quality improvement project was to clarify the role of an internal Resource Center so as to align with the staff resources available and not duplicate statewide systems of support.

The Waisman Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison the …

The Effects Of Joint Training On Career And Technical Education And Special Education Professionals, Crystal K. Emery, Robert L. Morgan

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

Abstract

Young adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who leave high school have limited options in adulthood. Their rates of competitive employment in inclusive community settings is very low compared to their counterparts without disabilities. Involvement in postsecondary education and independent, community living is likewise limited. They need teams of trained professionals representing relevant disciplines who work together to support the student along college, career, and community pathways. Not only should special educators (SPED) be trained, but career technical education (CTE) professionals should be jointly trained in how to collaborate effectively and provide well-coordinated services. The purpose of this research …

Acknowledgments, Matt Wappett

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

No abstract provided.

The Remote Online Initiative: A Legislative Strategy For Rural Workforce Development In Utah, Amanda D. Ali, Paul A. Hill

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

The Remote Online Initiative (ROI) was a legislative response to growing unemployment and limited job opportunities in rural Utah. The ROI program seeks to reduce unemployment in rural Utah communities via remote job placements. Since 2018, the ROI program has expanded to include three flagship certificate courses – Certified Remote Work Professional (CRWP), Certified Remote Work Leader (CRWL), and Certified Tech Sales Professional (CTSP). To date, evaluation results show that 411 Utah graduates found remote jobs after completing the CRWP course, 55% of participants said their department created a remote work environment and hired, on average, 19 remote employees upon …

Engaging Utah Educators To Teach 21st-Century Skills Using Drones, Denise Stewardson, Cory Ortiz, Lendel K. Narine, Joseph Furse

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) provide a unique opportunity to teach complex STEM skills and promote agricultural literacy in the classroom. However, many teachers lack knowledge of UAVs and agricultural contexts for teaching with UAVs. This program delivered professional training to 56 teachers to develop their skills in using UAVs in the classroom to promote agricultural literacy.

Assessing The Needs Of Utah Dairy Farmers To Inform Extension Programming, Bruce F. Richards, Lendel Narine, Justin Clawson, Kalen Taylor, Jacob Hadfield, Jody Gale

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

A needs assessment was conducted by the Utah State University Dairy Extension Team to identify the most urgent issues faced by Utah dairy farmers. The assessment found that the top five priority needs were implementing new technology, improving public perception of water use, managing risk, succession planning, and reducing feed costs. The results will guide dairy Extension programming in Utah. Several workshops and events have already been planned to address these needs. Overall, the assessment will help USU Extension provide research-based educational programs to meet the needs of the dairy industry in Utah.