Disability and Equity in Education Commons^™

Exploring The Recognition Of Internalizing Problems Among Black Students: Delving Into The Youth Mental Health Help-Seeking Pathway, Marketta A. Adams

LSU Master's Theses

The mental health of Black adolescents is a growing concern, with high prevalence rates of internalizing disorders such as anxiety and depression. National studies report that nearly 47% of Black adolescents experience a mental health disorder by age 18, with over 60% reporting moderate to severe depressive symptomology. Despite these alarming rates, Black youth underutilize mental health services, often due to cultural stigma, limited access to culturally competent care, and under-recognition of their mental health needs. This study aimed to explore problem recognition as a key component in the mental health help-seeking pathway for Black adolescents in school settings. Grounded …

Introducing Neuro Social Work: A Brief Reflection On Neuroscience And The Profession, Priscila Llamosa

Social Work Faculty Publications

Neuroscience offers language and evidence that can strengthen interdisciplinary communication, support advocacy in biomedically dominated settings, and validate relational practices long recognized in social work, including the impacts of early adversity, attachment, and healing through connection. At the same time, an epistemological tension underlies the profession’s unease with neuroscience when brain-based narratives are used to individualize structural harm or justify surveillance of marginalized families and communities. This teaching note introduces Neuro Social Work as a justice-oriented specialization that integrates contemporary neuroscience with social work’s person-in-environment commitments, relational practice traditions, and anti-oppressive ethics.The author argues that the key question is no …

Tensions And Transformations: Equity, Diversity, And Inclusion In A Diverse Urban School Division, Lesley Eblie Trudel, Kishi Anderson Leachman, Wayne Davies

Journal of Educational Research and Practice

This study examines how equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are understood and implemented within a large, diverse, urban school division in Canada. Using a mixed-methods approach and grounded in theoretical perspectives, including critical race theory, intersectionality, the ecology of inclusive education, and collective efficacy theory, we gathered insights from surveys and focus groups with educators, administrators, clinicians, educational assistants, caregivers, and students. Findings suggest that, while support for EDI is broad, the implementation is inconsistent and shaped by systemic barriers, resource constraints, and unclear leadership. We highlight the need for shared language, coordinated supports, and ongoing professional learning and instructional …

Universal Design For Learning: Practical Implications For Christian Educators, Hannah S. Kennedy, Kate Scarborough, Bryan Gill, Lisa L. Beckham

International Christian Community of Teacher Educators Journal

The Universal Design for Learning framework, designed by David Rose and Anne Meyer (2002) is an evidence-based approach to teaching that proactively targets learner variability and meets the unique needs of all students in the classroom. This framework aligns with our faith-based mission as we are called to the Christ centered belief that all people were made in the image of God. The three guiding principles of Universal Design for Learning are: multiple means of representation, multiple means of engagement, and multiple means of action/expression. By adopting the principles of universal design for learning, educators can proactively plan, implement, and …

Investigating The Relationship Between Noun Classes And Plant Folk Taxonomy In Chasu Language Of Kilimanjaro Region In Tanzania, Peter Rabson Mziray

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

The current study investigates the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu (G 22). The study focuses on two objectives: the first objective is to describe the plant folk taxonomy in Chasu and the second objective is to determine the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu. Data were collected from rural villages in Same and Mwanga districts by using free listing, field interviews (jungle-walk-and-identify), and written texts containing Chasu plant names. The findings reveal that Chasu folk taxonomy reflects different ethnobotanical categories; including a unique beginner which is mmea/mimea ‘plant(s)’, and three life …

Beyond Phonics: Neuroaesthetic And Symbolic Divergence In Culturally Responsive Dyslexia Screening, Piper Hutson, James Hutson

Faculty Scholarship

Recent advances in neuroscience and educational technology have challenged the traditional phonological-deficit model of dyslexia, revealing the profound influence of visual-symbolic processing, neuroaesthetic resonance, and cultural context in the reading brain. This article interrogates prevailing assessment paradigms by synthesizing research on the Visual Word Form Area (VWFA), cross-linguistic literacy systems, and emerging neurodiversity frameworks. The study addresses the urgent need to reconceptualize dyslexia as a heterogeneous divergence in symbolic processing—rooted as much in neuroaesthetic and visuospatial alignment as in phonemic awareness. Existing screeners, predominantly optimized for English and other Latin-based scripts, systematically neglect the cognitive realities of learners in multilingual …

American Period Poverty: Highlighting Inequity At Home, Julia E. Lever, Phillip D. Grant

The Rural Educator

No abstract provided.

Adaptation Of The Use Of The Makerspace Resources For The Improvement Of The Education System In East Africa, Mary Oluga, Jane Rarieya, Wachira Nicholas, Nyagwegwe Wango

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

Adopting new teaching and learning methods to improve learning outcomes is a critical concern in contemporary education. In line with this, the Makerspace movement, accompanied by Design Thinking, is being ingrained into teacher education as a strategy to enhance the performance of teacher educators and the quality of pre-service teachers. Borrowing from constructivism theory, Makerspaces provide opportunities for tutors, student teachers, and school learners to develop artifacts that aid and demonstrate their learning. This paper examines how Makerspace materials might be incorporated into teacher education and school classrooms, emphasizing strategies, empirical findings, and actionable recommendations derived from a study across …

Knowledge And Use Of Teachers Of Students With Intellectual Disabilities For Universal Design For Transition, Sarah Khaled Alfawzan Dr.

International Journal for Research in Education

The present study aimed to identify teachers of students with intellectual disabilities knowledge and Use of Universal Design for Transition (UDT) in intellectual education programs. To achieve the objectives of the study, the researcher yielded the descriptive research, and the questionnaire was used as a tool to collect data, as the study sample consisted of (270) male and female teachers of students with intellectual disabilities in the middle and secondary school. The results indicated that the level of knowledge of teachers of students with intellectual disabilities about UDT was at a high level. The results also indicated that the level …

The Effectiveness Of Video Modelling To Teach Asking Permission For People With Intellectual Disabilities In A Primary School, Mana S. Alguefel, Norah S. Aldosiry Dr.

International Journal for Research in Education

The study aims to measure the effectiveness of video modelling in teaching three students with intellectual disabilities in primary school the skill of asking permission. The sample of the study included three female students with mild intellectual disabilities, their ages ranged from 8 to 12 years. A Multiple probe design across participants has been used to verify the effectiveness of video modelling in teaching three female students with intellectual disabilities to ask permission. The study applied in a private primary school in the city of Riyadh. Specifically, the baseline procedures and the intervention and maintenance procedures were applied in one …

Italian Mathematics Prison Teachers’ Perspective On The Teaching/Learning Of Mathematics In Prison School, Andrea Maffia, Luca Decembrotto, Chiara Giberti, Federica Mennuni, Gabriella Pocalana, Silvia Regola, Agnese Telloni

Journal of Prison Education Research

Teaching in the prison context is characterized by a high complexity level; it is a multifaced activity influenced by several factors depending on the specific context. We present a preliminary but overall picture of schooling in Italian prisons by considering teachers’ reflections regarding their experiences in teaching mathematics in correctional facilities. To address the gap in the current literature on this issue, we conducted a SWOT analysis on the reflection provided by a group of nine Italian mathematics teachers who teach in different prisons and with different experiences and backgrounds. Their reflection allowed us to identify and describe six theory-driven …

P–12 District Equity “Shutdown”: Equity Directors’ Experiences Amid Anti-Equity Organizing, 2020–2022, Andrew Matschiner

Education Faculty Articles and Research

This article examines local experiences of the national attack on district equity work intended to better support Students of Color and LGBTQ+ students over the 2020–2022 school years. Drawing on theory on zones of mediation and interviews with over 70 district “equity directors” (EDs) nationally, I analyze how together national, state, and local pressure led to district equity “shutdown.” Forms of district equity shutdown included censoring equity-focused communication and language, eliminating district equity-focused programming or personnel, and restricting books and learning resources, with 40% of EDs reporting at least one form of district equity shutdown.

From Mirrors To Maps: Reimagining Supervision Through Coaching, Reflection And Metaphor, Meg Norris, Sungeun Min, Andrew S. Miness, Tracy Driehaus

Education Faculty Research

No abstract provided.

Submission: Inquiry Into The Thriving Kids Initiative, Australian Council For Educational Research (Acer)

Shaping educational policy

This submission to the Inquiry into the Thriving Kids initiative advocates for an evidence-based, inclusive approach to supporting children up to eight years with developmental delay, disability and autism within mainstream early childhood and school settings. It recommends embedding foundational supports within a Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework that integrates universal, targeted and intensive interventions according to children's needs rather than diagnosis. The submission highlights the importance of workforce capability, collaborative practice, effective leadership, high-quality assessment and screening tools, and embedded allied health support. Adequately resourcing MTSS implementation will strengthen inclusion, early intervention and educational outcomes for all children.

Vol 18 Issue 3 List Of Reviewers

Journal of Educational Technology Development and Exchange (JETDE)

Vol 18 Issue 3 List of reviewers

Vol 16 Issue 2 List Of Reviewers

Journal of Educational Technology Development and Exchange (JETDE)

List of reviewers of Vol 16, Issue 2

Diversity In Aquatics:4th Special Issue, Tiffany M. Quash Ph.D., Angela K. Beale-Tawfeeq, Steven N. Waller Ph.D.

International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education

The theme of this special issue is “Building a Community of Champions.” The purpose of this theme is to highlight and promote a civic engagement perspective that engages, advocates, and supports communities of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) in addressing the national, regional, and local evolving health-related issue of drowning. Aquatic Settings have been a pivotal focal point of social justice, water safety, and public health, not only in the past but also in our present day (Beale-Tawfeeq, Quash, et al, 2023 and Waller and Bemiller, 2023). Diversity In Aquatics (DIA) strives to positively impact the field of aquatics …

Teaching Swimming To Children With Disabilities: A Qualitative Analysis Of Swim Instructorstea, Stephanie S. Garcia-Hidalgo, Martin E. Block

International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education

When teaching children with disabilities, swim instructors need to be able to assess the unique strengths and needs of each child to determine modifications needed to instruction, equipment, and the setting and then be flexible enough to make changes in real-time to ensure success for the child. Unfortunately, many swim instructors only work seasonally and have the occasional child with a disability, and as a result are likely to have limited training and experiences with children with disabilities. The purpose of this pilot qualitative study is to examine backgrounds, training, and experiences of six swim instructors who work with children …

Revisiting Least Restrictive Environment In Adapted Physical Education: A Framework For Evidence-Based Practice, Dillon R. Martinez, Samantha Charron

Essays in Education

This article addresses the implementation of Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) principles in adapted physical education. Despite the legal mandates established by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the field faces significant challenges, including a shortage of qualified professionals, overemphasis on universal inclusion, and the exclusion of student voices from placement decisions. Through analysis of historical context, implementation challenges, and a proposed Student-Centered APE Placement Model (SCAPM), this article provides a preliminary framework for making evidence-based placement decisions that prioritize student success. By integrating perspectives from a preservice teacher education candidate and current higher education practice, the framework offers practitioners a …

Red: A Crayon’S Story Bibliotherapy, David Wolff

OER Materials

The goal of this assignment was for preservice teachers to practice writing a chain of questions that focused on the social and/or emotional needs of young learners. Bibliotherapy is therapeutic in nature to help individuals understand themselves and the world around them through guided reading experiences (American Library Association, 2025; Delisle & Galbraith, 2002). Further, bibliotherapy allow individuals to identify a personal problem mirrored by a character in a book. As the reader connects with the character, the reader experiences the emotions expressed by the character. Finally, the reader applies the character’s experience to their own personal problem (American Library …

Comparing Massed And Distributed Course Formats: Effects On Outcomes In A Graduate Augmentative And Alternative Communication Course, Brandon Scott Eddy, Alli Sauerwein, Leah Meloy, Eric Sanders

Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & Disorders

The effects of massed versus distributed learning have been well studied in the verbal and motor learning literature, with findings suggesting enhanced outcomes from distributing learning over time. However, some studies have found limited evidence to support enhanced outcomes from distributed learning when applied to an entire academic course. The effects of course scheduling on student learning in speech-language pathology graduate coursework have received limited attention. This study compared learning outcomes between a one-week massed format and an eight-week distributed format in an online two-credit augmentative and alternative communication graduate-level course. Learning outcomes were assessed before students enrolled, immediately after …

Becoming Again: Dialogues On Identity Formation Among Second-Career Educators In Initial Certification Programs, Michelle White, Tracy Driehaus, Mark Wolfmeyer

Education Faculty Research

No abstract provided.

Unraveling Equity: The Consequences Of Dismantling Dei Initiatives In Education., James D. Upshaw

2025 Fall Honors Capstones Projects - Archive

Recent political and institutional shifts have led to the dismantling of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives across schools and universities, raising concerns about how these changes affect both students and the future workforce. This research investigates how the removal of DEI programs influences student belonging, academic access, and long-term workforce diversity. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines qualitative interviews with professors and students and quantitative analysis of enrollment, retention, and diversity data from universities affected by DEI policy changes. Preliminary findings suggest that dismantling DEI initiatives leads to decreased student support, reduced faculty morale, and declining representation among …

Humanizing Teacher Residencies: Moving At The Speed Of Trust To Advance Professionalism, Advocacy, And Innovation In Educator Preparation, Meghan Cosier, Cynthia Goin, Sally Hawkins, Taylor Stratz

Education Faculty Books and Book Chapters

In response to teacher shortages and inequities in teacher diversity and retention, Saint Mary’s College of California (SMC) launched three equity-centered residencies in partnership with local school districts. These residencies provide paid, yearlong co-teaching experiences with mentor teachers engaged in ongoing professional learning with a focus on building trust-based partnerships while advancing professionalism and innovation. The model prioritized recruiting local candidates in critical need areas, addressing barriers to entry, and ensuring high-quality, LEA-connected coursework. This presentation shared examples and tools from Saint Mary’s College of California’s sustainable, humanizing, and equity-centered teacher residencies and detailed enactment strategies, mentor supports, and practices …

Supporting Digital Accessibility In Community College Libraries, Jessica Tipton

Sabbatical Projects

Original Sabbatical Proposal: As part of my dissertation on removing accessibility barriers to library services and resources, I will evaluate materials our library creates, purchases, and shares, focusing on WCAG 2.1 AA compliance.  I will earn a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) certification and create a guide for academic librarians on developing accessible learning materials and evaluating purchased content to ensure equitable access for all students.

Active Learning: Eight Models That Shape Instructional Practice, A.E. Dreyfuss, Ana Fraiman, Karmen T. Yu

Publications and Research

Developed since the mid-20^th century, several instructional models have provided practical means to shift the emphasis in learning from lecture to engagement by students. The snapshots of models presented in this paper include Cooperative Learning, Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Supplemental Instruction (SI) (also PALS, PASS), Team-Based Learning (TBL), Emerging Scholars Program (Mathematics Workshop, MathExcel), Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL), Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL), and Learning Assistants (LA). These models have been well-disseminated, widely adopted, and incorporated in disciplines beyond their origins. For purposes of exploration and consideration of implementation, these “snapshots” provide an overview. Features of each model are …

Shaping Inclusive Futures: Gender-Responsive Practices In Pre-Primary Teacher Training Colleges In Tanzania And Uganda, Jane Rarieya, Nyagwegwe Wango, Tage Biswalo

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

This paper examines the role of gender-responsive pedagogy in advancing inclusive pre-primary education through a qualitative case study of teacher training colleges in Uganda and Tanzania. Conducted under the Foundation for Learning (F4L) initiative, the study engaged tutors, student teachers, and administrators to explore how gender equity is integrated into teaching practices, institutional policies, and community engagement. Findings demonstrate that gender-responsive approaches were systematically embedded in lesson plans, classroom practices, and teaching resources, moving beyond rhetoric to tangible change. Student teachers demonstrated effective application of inclusive strategies during practicum, reflecting both conceptual understanding and practical competence. Colleges also adopted visual …

Bridging Sensory Processing And Community Integration For Adults With Idd: A Bilingual Approach, Stephanie J. Newman, Cynthia Haynes

Fall 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

The capstone project included creation, implementation, and evaluation of an educational program. The program provided education for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their respective caregivers. The educational materials included development and implementation of educational workshops of sensory processing strategies in the community, work, and social settings for adults with IDD and bilingual home programs created for caregiver education. The program was evaluated through pre- and post-surveys administered to caregivers to demonstrate changes in knowledge of sensory processing strategies, as well as client assessments administered to assess changes in client understanding of sensory strategies.

Increasing Play Opportunities To Improve Development And Health For Children, Kallie S. Ellis, Wendy Tremaine, Emily Bush

Fall 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Children with disabilities often experience reduced opportunities for meaningful peer play, which can negatively influence their physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development. Early childhood environments play a critical role in supporting inclusive participation, yet many barriers—physical, social, and environmental—limit access to developmentally rich play throughout the school day. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop, implement, and evaluate a Tier-1, school-based program designed to increase meaningful play opportunities for preschool children ages 3–6, with and without disabilities.

A needs assessment was conducted with teachers and parents to identify developmental concerns and participation barriers related to fine motor, gross motor, …

Easing The Limits Of The Statute Of Limitations: A Path To A More Equitable Idea, Sarah Shepley

William & Mary Law Review

Part I of this Note discusses the special education framework, outlining the rights and obligations of parents and school systems created by the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA). Part II evaluates the IDEA’s statute of limitations as the gatekeeping instrument of the due process complaint system and discusses the Third Circuit’s reconciliation of the seemingly conflicting statutory provisions of the IDEA in G.L. v. Ligonier Valley School District Authority. Part III situates the implications of the Ligonier decision within the broader special education landscape, discussing other courts’ adoption of or deviations from the Third Circuit’s interpretation, interpretations …