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Contributors To Jaepl, Vol. 29, Wendy Ryden

The Journal of the Assembly for Expanded Perspectives on Learning

Contributors to JAEPL, Vol. 29

Mapping James Moffett: Formative Assessment And Common Core Standards For The Contemporary Language Arts Classroom, Jonathan M. Marine, Ruth Nathan

The Journal of the Assembly for Expanded Perspectives on Learning

In this article, we argue for an expanded conception of language assess-ment based on the principles of James Moffett and centered on outfitting teachers with useful information with which to guide their practice and optimize student learning. Importantly, we begin the article by demonstrating that Moffett’s interest in assessing language growth occurs much earlier than previously thought. Then, we sketch a composite view of Moffett’s evolving views on assessment as drawn from works across the span of his career while also investigating the many thinkers who influenced his ideas in order to situate them in the historical and educational con-text …

Echo And Drag As Resistance: Coloniality, Queerness, And Practices Of Reading Student Texts, Joshua Barsczewski, Florianne Jimenez

The Journal of the Assembly for Expanded Perspectives on Learning

In this article, a postcolonial theorist and a queer studies scholar reconsider the role of student resistance in Writing Studies’ social justice turn, arguing for a way of reading student texts that accounts for why students might choose to take up social justice or not in their own writing. Through examples from their ongoing research projects, the writers discuss how students’ resistance surfaced not as visible and explicit signs of a changed epistemological framework or political perspective, but as a series of normative rhetorical choices that made space for more transgressive or subversive possibilities.

Back Matter - Jaepl Volume 29, Wendy Ryden

The Journal of the Assembly for Expanded Perspectives on Learning

Back Matter - JAEPL Volume 29

Full Issue Of The Journal Of The Assembly For Expanded Perspectives On Learning Volume 29, Wendy Ryden

The Journal of the Assembly for Expanded Perspectives on Learning

Full Issue of The Journal of the Assembly for Expanded Perspectives on Learning Volume 29.

Professional Portfolio: Assessment Of And Strategies For Improving A Middle School Student’S Mathematics Performance, Gwenyth O. Falck

All Graduate Reports and Creative Projects, Fall 2023 to Present

This project explores strategies to help secondary students with disabilities improve their mathematics performance. With eighth-grade math scores trending downward and algebra serving as a critical gateway to higher education, target interventions are needed. The literature review highlights two main instructional methods: the Explicit Inquiry Routine (EIR) and the Concrete-Representational-Abstract Integration (CRA-I). Both incorporate physical and virtual manipulatives. These approaches have been shown to help students grasp algebraic concepts, retain what they have learned and apply the skills to new types of problems.

In addition to the research review, this paper includes assessment and intervention reports for a seventh-grade student …

A Qualitative Study Of Iranian Efl Teachers’ Perceptions Of A Digital Diversified Education, Seyed Mohammad Reza Marvasti Zadeh, Azizollah Dabaghi Varnosfadrani Advarnosfadrani, Mohammad Amiryousefi

The Qualitative Report

Because Iran is a country of learners of diverse languages, socio-economic classes, genders, and ages, digital diversified education seems appropriate to address needs in English language education. However, there is a notable gap in research on teachers’ perceptions about this type of education. To fill this gap, this study aimed to investigate the perspectives of Iranian teachers of English as a foreign language (EFL) regarding a diverse digital education. Data were collected via an open-ended survey with 30 EFL teachers, both male and female, who were selected through convenience sampling. Analysis revealed several key themes, including the utilization of diverse …

Exploring The Lived Experience Of Former Special Educators In The Greater Toronto Area And Their Perceptions Of Work Conditions In The Special Education Classroom, Michael J. Daniels

Doctor of Education Program Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative interpretive phenomenological analysis was (a) to explore the lived experiences of public Kindergarten–Grade 8 (K–8) special educators in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) who left the field of special education and (b) to understand challenges caused by their work conditions. The research questions were (a) “How do former public K–8 special educators in the GTA describe their lived experience within their special education classroom and the role of work their conditions in their decision to leave the field?” (b) “How do former public K–8 special educators in the GTA in the field of special education …

Descriptions That Tell, Katerina Sturgis

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

In special education evaluations, a common assessment is the Woodcock-Johnson IV Test of Achievement. Special educators struggle to write clear and concise subtest descriptions that allow future educators and support staff to read the students’ results and come away with a clear understanding of the student’s present levels at the time of the evaluation. When giving the Woodcock-Johnson Assessment the evaluator must be familiar with the assessment, how it is given, and how to write the results. With personalized results for each sub-test, the reader should be able to pull information to determine the student’s present levels of learning, recovery …

Coach To Teach: Effects Of Ecoaching On Special Education Teacher Implementation Of Discrete Trial Training, Olga Karadimou

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Theses & Dissertations

The growing shortage of special education teachers (SETs) and declining retention rates across numerous United States (U.S.) school districts pose a serious threat to the quality of education provided to students with disabilities. One of the ongoing challenges is the significant gap between evidence-based practices (EBPs) and their actual implementation in classrooms. Researchers emphasize the importance of providing high-quality professional development (PD) targeting the use of EBPs in the classroom, as doing so has been linked to SET retention (Berry & Gravelle, 2013; Berry et al., 2011; Hagaman & Casey, 2018; Reagan et al., 2019). This study aimed to experimentally …

Cultural Advocacy And Teachers Of Color, Torine Champion, Linda Wilson-Jones

Journal of Research Initiatives

Teachers of color face marginalization and microaggressions that their White counterparts do not have to face. African American teachers experience microaggressions pathologizing their cultural values and communication styles, cultural/ethnic insensitivity, an ascription of their intelligence, and being treated as second-class citizens) that are hurtful, undermining, and disparaging (Brown, 2019). Asian American teachers face gendered, racial, and sexualized expectations on their campuses (Endo, 2015). A study of Latina bilingual teachers revealed that they felt alienated from their colleagues, had larger workloads, and did not have access to support (Amos, 2016). Teachers of color experience inequalities, microaggressions, and marginalization that impact their …

The Disconnect Between Student And Educator Perspectives On Effective Technology Usage In Higher Education, Matt Marino

Journal of Research Initiatives

This article explores the disconnect between student and educator perspectives regarding practical technology usage in higher education. As technology continues to play an increasingly prominent role in the educational landscape, understanding the differing viewpoints of students and educators is crucial for designing impactful technology integration strategies. Through a comprehensive literature review, this article examines the factors contributing to the disconnect and its implications for teaching and learning in higher education. Additionally, recommendations are provided to bridge this gap and promote a more aligned understanding of effective technology usage between students and educators.

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Understanding Heutagogy: A New “Gogy”, Romero D'Souza

Journal of Research Initiatives

In an era of expanding research on innovative approaches to student-centered learning, this paper contributes to the discourse on heutagogy's potential benefits for individual professional growth. The concept of heutagogy is dissected, emphasizing its significance in educational settings. The study elucidates the nature of heutagogy, its principles, and the role of the heutagogy educator in facilitating self-directed learning. Furthermore, the study explores the benefits and critiques of heutagogy, considering its implementation challenges. This study explores the relevance and significance of heutagogy in the contemporary educational context, considering the backdrop of ICT integration in 21st-century classrooms, the transformative impact of the …

Dr. Carter G. Woodson And Pedagogy In Education, Dorrance Kennedy, Terri Moore-Brown, Abraham Watson

Journal of Research Initiatives

Dr. Carter G Woodson was an African American historian, author, publisher, and activist. He is known as the Father of Black History. He was the second African American to receive a doctorate from Harvard University. He was the founder of the Journal of Negro Education and the Associated Publishers. He wrote many influential books, including The History of the Negro Church and The Miseducation of the Negro. He died in Washington, DC in 1950.

An Interview With Susan Loesl: Pioneering Adaptive Art For Students With Disabilities, Sedigheh Fatollahzadeh Dizaji, Jennifer Elaine Smith

Journal of the Arts and Special Education

Abstract

While art education, which often focuses on skill development, and art therapy, which typically centers more on personal expression and client goals, are two different areas of art, they have many benefits when used together. Susan Loesl is an art therapist and art educator with over 40 years of experience. In this article she shares her expertise in art therapy, art education, and adapting art tools for students with disabilities. Her work highlights the importance of creativity, collaboration, and the need for more art therapists in schools. She also shares advice for those considering careers in art therapy and …

Proactive Behavior Strategies To Reduce Challenging Behaviors Leading To Exclusionary Discipline, Katherine A. Graves, Lindsey Mirielli, Chad Rose

Journal of Curriculum, Teaching, Learning and Leadership in Education

Teachers face a persistent challenge of addressing problem behavior in schools, often leading to office disciplinary referrals (ODRs) and subsequent exclusionary discipline practices such as suspension or expulsion. Despite widespread use, these disciplinary measures have shown little effectiveness in enhancing school safety or addressing student behavior. However, teachers can play a crucial role in mitigating problem behavior by implementing proactive strategies. By adopting effective proactive approaches, teachers can reduce the frequency of ODRs and subsequently decrease reliance on exclusionary discipline, thereby minimizing the adverse immediate and long-term outcomes associated with such practices. The purpose of this paper is to provide …

An Examination Of Transition Professional Profiles Based On Value-Based Principles: A Latent Profile Analysis, Anthony Plotner, Angie Starrett, Charles Walters, Rebecca Smith Hill

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

This paper presents findings from a study utilizing Latent Profile Analysis to examine the value-based principles of transition professionals from two distinct disciplines: special education and Centers for Independent Living (CIL). Specifically, this paper aimed to identify profiles emerging from the value orientations of special education and CIL professionals, and to explore how individual factors such as professional role, disability status, education, and years’ experience differ across these profiles. Findings revealed a taxonomy comprising four distinct profiles within the transition professionals sampled. These profiles delineate varying dominant values that encapsulate the convergence of special education and independent living philosophies. Implications …

A Critical Realism Epistemological Informed Case Study: Special Education Teacher Retention In Urban And Suburban School Districts In Minnesota, Jill Bachmann Dr

Doctorate in Education

Special education teachers play a pivotal role in school districts across the country. Special education students benefit from teachers who are knowledgeable in their practice, dedicated, and able to meet their needs, regardless of their abilities. High turnover rates among special education teachers have significant implications for the quality of education provided to students in special education and the overall functioning of schools. Despite decades of research in the area, retention of special education teachers continues to plague districts.

Utilizing a critical realism epistemological approach, this qualitative research study provides an overview of the challenges associated with special education teacher …

Desirability Of Dape: K-12 Administrators Ideal Pe Teachers Candidates And Their Licensure Areas, Dillon R. Martinez, Steve Baule, Ray Martinez

Essays in Education

Abstract In response to persistent teacher shortages in the United States, exacerbated by specific content areas' scarcity, this article explores the desirability of teachers holding licenses in Developmentally Adaptive Physical Education (DAPE) alongside traditional Physical Education (PE) qualifications. A survey conducted among school administrators in Minnesota and Wisconsin reveals that administrators highly favor PE teachers with DAPE licensure, with 88% of respondents expressing a preference for candidates with this dual qualification. This preference arises from the perceived versatility and enhanced value these educators bring to school districts, addressing multiple challenges such as teacher shortages and meeting diverse student needs. The …

Consultation Versus Direct Special Education Services And Postschool Outcomes For Individuals With Disabilities As Assessed By Indicator 14 Data, Callie Welch

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

There is abundant research relating to transition supports and services for students with disabilities as they move out of high school into adulthood; however, relatively little is known about the relationship between the type of special education services they received and their postschool outcomes. Guided by the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) and Tennessee’s Indicator 14 survey, I sought to better understand the relationship between the type of special education services received in high school and student further schooling or employability after graduation. Data were drawn from Indicator 14 surveys from 2021 and 2024 conducted by a rural school district …

Evaluating The Impact Of Special Education Coaching Support, Jennifer Clairmont

Education Theses and Dissertations

This study addressed the problem of historically low reading achievement among students receiving special education services (SpEd) in the North Texas Independent School District (NTISD). The research aimed to evaluate the impact of SpEd instructional coaching support for middle school resource RLA (RLA) teachers as an intervention to improve student reading outcomes and better understand teachers’ perceptions of coaching support. Using an Improvement Science approach with Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles, the study employed a mixed-methods design to assess the impact of SpEd coaching support provided during the 2023- 2024 school year. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through a teacher survey …

Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder In A Special Education Classroom: A Reflective Inquiry, Dion J. Barrett Ms.

Essays in Education

Abstract This essay is comprised with reflective experiences with sensory processing disorder (SPD) in the classroom as a new teacher. Challenges that were experienced when navigating SPD and its characteristics. Initially unaware of SPD and its nuanced characteristics, significant hurdles were shared. SPD can be mishandled and mislabeled and can lead to learning barriers and emotional triggers. I describe ways to engaged in appropriate interventions and accommodations that work when applied correctly, timely, and specific. From this experience, I was able to create my own sensory solution that serves the needs of all my sensational learners in the classroom. A …

Improving Cohesion Between General Education And Special Education Departments, Jacob Haugmo

Graduate Teacher Education

Cohesion between general education and special education departments is the idea of blending and aligning instructional methods and approaches regardless of educational discipline. This paper was written to examine how this cohesion can be improved. Educational leaders must improve cohesion between general education and special education departments to support the academic achievement and success of all students in schools. Through qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies, methods to improve this cohesion were researched. The research provided insight on how general education and special education teachers feel about collaboration and how collaborative efforts can be utilized to improve cohesion. These collaborative …

Enhancing Student Engagement: Exploring The Participating, Investing, And Driving Pathways Of A Continuum Framework, Bryan Matera

Essays in Education

This article examines three levels of student engagement on a specified continuum and includes actionable strategies that can be implemented by practitioners in the field of Education. The writing highlights the three necessary components that lead to increased student engagement and lands on the work of a specific framework to progress this research forward. As students become increasingly involved in their learning experiences and engagement opportunities, students will tend to climb the student engagement continuum toward a more active role in their own learning.

Middle School Teachers' Perceptions Of The Use Of Serious Games For Students With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Latoyia R. Stewart

Journal of Research Initiatives

Attention deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common childhood neurodevelopment disorder, and severe digital game use has recently shown significant promise in this psychotherapeutic area. Digital serious games have also been used as an innovative teaching and learning approach. This study aimed to explore middle school teachers' perceptions of the use of digital severe games for students with ADHD. The conceptual framework for this study was Sherry's model of game engagement. The two research questions for this basic qualitative study focused on middle school teacher perceptions regarding the benefits and challenges related to the use of digital serious games …

Closing The Knowledge Gap With Literacy-Infused And Rich Social Studies Content, Jeffrey Leffler, Ksenia Zhbanova

Journal of Research Initiatives

Social studies have been marginalized in early childhood education amid the prevalence of standardized testing and political issues. However, a comprehensive approach to early education, including social studies, is gaining attention. This article emphasizes the significance of incorporating social studies into early childhood curriculum, illuminating its potential to enhance children's cognitive and social-emotional development. The second important aspect of this article focuses on the role of social studies in literacy skill development through building background knowledge, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills of young children.

Leadership And Teacher Agency For Inclusive Classrooms: Insights About Integrating Students With Disabilities Into Inclusive Classrooms From Teachers And School Leaders In Three International Schools, Chad Wood

Dissertations

As international schools continue to flourish, they must consider how to be inclusive and meet the needs not only of multicultural populations of students, but also the needs of students with diagnosed learning difficulties (i.e., students with special needs). Promoting teacher agency is a potentially important component in successfully implementing inclusive practices given that teachers are key actors in the implementation process. Currently, however, there is limited empirical evidence regarding the interconnectedness of teacher agency and inclusion of special needs populations in international schools.

This qualitative research explores the role of school leaders in promoting teacher agency to support the …

Exploring Special Education Teacher Perceptions Of The Effects Of A School-Based Yoga Program On Adolescents Classified As Emotionally Disturbed, Ivette Brown

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

Adolescents with behavioral disorders suffer academic and social struggles when compared to general education adolescents in the United States. As behavioral health strategies gain greater priority in schools, interest has increased in the use of yoga practices as one of the key approaches to addressing student well-being. The majority of previous research relating to adult yoga has shown positive benefits; however, research on teacher perceptions of youth yoga is lacking. This study explores special education teachers’ perceptions of school-based yoga programs and their impact, if any, on students with behavioral disabilities with special interest in adolescents’ personal and social experiences …

A Systematic Review On The Efficacy Of Video Modeling On Social Interactions Among Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Miguel Cantu

Masters Theses (Archived)

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of video modeling in increasing social interactions with individuals with ASD (IwASD) in transitional or postsecondary educational settings. The study inclusion criteria included (a) quantitative data must be present, (b) an objective or research question must be stated, (c) video modeling must be an intervention in their study, (d) a minimum of one target behavior must focus on social interactions, and (e) all studies must be published within the last six years. This systematic review analyzed the purpose, sample, methodology, settings, discussion, and results to find the effectiveness of the intervention, resulting …

Evaluating The Need For Professional Learning That Highlights Proficient Teaching Strategies For Students With Autism In The Elementary Environment, Allison Norman

Dissertations

There is an increase in the identification of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) throughout the country. There is also an emphasis on inclusion within the classrooms in the country. This qualitative study addresses the need for teachers to grasp more knowledge about Autism so that they can help children with autism have better access to the general education curriculum and increase support for success in the classroom. Through an action research project, this study aimed to gauge elementary school teachers' existing knowledge about Autism and identify areas where they desired further education. The study involved surveying teachers to understand …