Search

Background Aim Method & Procedures Outcomes & Results Conclusions & Implications What this paper adds What is already known on the subject What this paper adds to existing knowledge What are the practical and clinical implications of this work? Over 8 million children with disabilities live in Africa and are candidates for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), yet formal training for team members, such as speech–language therapists and special education teachers, is extremely limited. Only one university on the continent provides postgraduate degrees in AAC, and other institutions provide only short modules at an undergraduate level. The need for an introductory training course on AAC that is accessible by university students continent‐wide was identified. An online programme, namely an intelligent tutoring system (ITS), was identified as a possible option to facilitate interactive learning without the need for synchronous teaching. The use of an ITS is shown to be effective in developing knowledge and clinical reasoning in the health and rehabilitation fields. However, it has not yet been applied to student teaching in the field of AAC.To determine both the feasibility of an ITS to implement an AAC curriculum for students in four African countries, and the usability and effectiveness of such a system as a mechanism for learning about AAC.The study included two components: the development of a valid AAC curriculum; and using the ITS to test the effectiveness of implementation in a pre‐ and post‐test design with 98 speech–language therapy and special education students from five universities.Statistically significant differences were obtained between pre‐ and post‐test assessments. Students perceived the learning experience as practical, with rich content.The findings suggest that the ITS‐based AAC curriculum was positively perceived by the students and potentially offers an effective means of providing supplementary AAC training to students, although modifications to the system are still required. Professionals typically lack formal training in AAC. In Africa, this presents a serious challenge as there are over 8 million children who are candidates for AAC. A need for an introductory training course on AAC, which can be accessed by university students continent‐wide, was identified. An AAC curriculum was developed and integrated into an ITS, an online programme allowing interactive learning through asynchronous teaching. Students from four African countries completed the AAC ITS curriculum. The curriculum was positively received by the students and statistically significant changes in knowledge were identified. This feasibility study shows that the use of an ITS is an effective means of providing AAC training to university students in these African countries. The results provide a valuable contribution toward ensuring the equitable distribution of AAC training opportunities in the African context. This will have a significant positive impact on those who are candidates for AAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study examines in-service teachers’ attitudes and teacher self-efficacy in implementing inclusive practices in Hong Kong classrooms. The predictors of teachers’ attitudes and teacher self-efficacy for inclusive practices were also investigated. Participants of the study comprised 1110 primary and secondary in-service teachers. Results reveal that Hong Kong in-service teachers had slightly positive attitudes towards inclusion. Teacher self-efficacy for inclusive practices was moderate and had a positive impact on teachers’ attitudes. Prior experience in teaching students with disabilities, confidence in teaching students with disabilities, level of training, years of teaching experience, self-efficacy in inclusive instruction and collaboration were significant predictors of teachers’ attitudes towards inclusive education. Knowledge of legislation and policies, confidence in teaching students with disabilities and teachers’ beliefs and their feelings were determined as the significant predictors of teacher self-efficacy. Recommendations and the limitations of the findings are discussed in light of these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross‐cultural adaptation and validation of measures are necessary to provide evidence‐based educational intervention services among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across countries. Language plays an integral role in the cross‐cultural adaptation and validation process of measures. Currently, there are limited validated tools in Chinese available to assess special education teachers' skills in functional behavior assessments and interventions in Mainland China to effectively support students with ASD. This study aimed to validate a Chinese version of the Skills and Needs Inventories in Functional Behavior Assessments and Interventions (SNI‐FBAI‐CN) in mainland China. The SNI‐FBAI, originally developed and validated in Singapore, in the English language, was translated, culturally adapted, and then administered to 239 special education teachers in two schools for children with ASD in China. Results show that the SNI‐FBAI‐CN has a three‐factor structure (i.e., skills in behavioral assessment, skills in behavioral interventions, and needs for training) that fits the data well, with good reliability for the overall scale, as well as the three subscales. Partial measurement invariance was established between the Chinese and the original Singapore samples, providing additional construct validity evidence for this tool. Limitations of this study and directions for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Special education teachers are among the professional figures in the educational sector who risk high levels of burnout. This study explores which variables among individual factors (i.e. socio-demographics, personal self-efficacy, computer self-efficacy) and contextual factors (i.e. collective self-efficacy and work organisation) can predict burnout among special education teachers. Participants included 3171 Italian special education teachers in primary, middle and high schools. They filled out the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory, the Perceived Personal and Collective Self-efficacy in the School Context Scale, the Intrapersonal Technology Integration Scale, and a questionnaire developed specifically to investigate socio-biographical characteristics and teaching organisation. A multivariate LASSO regression model was used to select the most significant predictors. The results identified multiple variables associated with burnout, both among individual factors (e.g. gender, self-efficacy) and contextual ones (e.g. lack of shared involvement in the Individualized Education Program). These results provide new perspectives for planning interventions for special education teachers taking into consideration both their individual characteristics and the context they work in. Limitations of the study and possible further research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of performance-based feedback delivered via email on teacher candidates' implementation of a multiple stimulus without replacement (MSWO) preference assessment with an adult confederate. Six participants enrolled in a special education teacher preparation program were recruited to participate. After exposure to an introductory MSWO training video, participant fidelity of MSWO administration was measured. Following baseline, performance feedback was delivered via e-mail to each participant after the completion of each research session. Results indicate that performance feedback delivered via e-mail improved fidelity of implementation for all six participants. Implications and future directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing on eight waves of the Schools and Staffing Survey and the National Teacher and Principal Survey, we used a difference-in-differences research design to examine special education teachers' (SETs) responses to No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and the subsequent reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA was associated with decreases in the proportion of SETs with special education as a field of study and graduate degrees, an increase in co-teaching, and a decrease in the proportion of SETs working in a resource delivery model, with no evidence that NCLB influenced these outcomes. Little consistent evidence was found to indicate these federal policies influenced SETs' job attitudes (e.g., job satisfaction). We identified differences in these associations based on school poverty status and grade level. These findings help to better understand the status and challenges of the current SET workforce and the unintended consequences of federal reform policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of a special educator is one of many different hats, including teacher, interventionist, comforter, parent, counselor, therapist, and administrator. These varying roles, particularly when working with students with emotional behavioral disorders, create one of the most emotionally taxing and challenging jobs in public education, which in turn leads to increased educator burnout and attrition. However, this does not need to be the fate of special educators. The purpose of this article is to (a) review one current support system widely implemented in the field for teachers of children with emotional behavioral disorders, (b) discuss the benefits of mentorship in the teaching workforce, (c) identify some of the barriers to mentorship, and (d) identify areas of reform for more effective mentorship practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guided by Self-Determination Theory, we conducted a case study of a high school math teacher nominated by students with disabilities as one who enhanced their learning. Using a combination of interviews and classroom observations, we explored the specific strategies that the teacher used to promote perceived autonomy among students with learning disabilities (LDs) and emotional-behavioral disorders (EBDs). The literature offers extensive evidence for the benefits of autonomy-supportive teacher practice, but much of the work was conducted without explicit inclusion of students with LDs and/or EBDs. Our analyses demonstrated that many of the practices captured in this research also worked to support the psychological needs of students with LDs and/or EBDs who participated in this study. Additionally, our case study teacher engaged in two additional strategies that are not currently represented in that body of evidence. As such, we discuss implications for practice and future directions for research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We overview several key issues of the past, present, and near future of special education for students with severe disabilities. We contextualize the Telos of special education by briefly remarking on its historical roots in the United States, then delve into several issues we believe are critical for advancing toward better outcomes for students with severe disabilities, including the increasingly alarming shortage of special education teachers and short-sighted responses to address it. We also discuss issues related to curricular decisions, and the apparent tension between access to general education (i.e. academic) curriculum and teaching other life altering repertoires for students with severe disabilities. Attention also is given to the evidence-based practices movement in special education, including the apparent rigidity of intervention protocols and slow advances toward clarifying for whom and under what conditions an intervention is effective. Our intention is to generate discussion about and interest in areas where consensus among stakeholders appears feasible such that policy and law can be influenced in ways that advance toward realizing the Telos of special education for students with severe disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For students with intensive learning needs for whom standard, validated interventions do not effectively promote academic growth, data-based instruction (DBI) is suggested as an effective, fine-grained approach to individualization. Key to DBI's success is making instructional changes based on individual students' progress monitoring data. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of such instructional changes on student early writing outcomes. We applied a piecewise linear–linear mixed-effects (PLME) model to determine student writing growth trajectories before and after teachers introduced instructional changes. Using data from 46 elementary school students with intensive writing intervention needs, results showed that a PLME model with two segmented slopes—before and after the change—best explained students' observed change in writing scores. Results also showed that a higher level of initial writing skills was associated with higher levels of intercepts and additional growth gains after the instructional change, whereas the type of instructional change was not associated with predicted writing trajectories. We discuss the implications of positive effects of teachers' individualized timely decisions to change instruction using progress monitoring data as well as unexpected findings and study limitations such as small sample size and inconsistency in results. Educational Impact and Implications Statement: When individualizing instruction for students with the most intensive academic intervention needs, especially in writing, it is recommended that teachers use student progress data to evaluate the effectiveness of instruction. Teachers are encouraged to change their instruction if the data indicates that students are not progressing as expected. We examined whether the instructional changes made by elementary special education teachers while implementing data-based instruction (DBI) improved the early writing outcomes of struggling beginning writers. When teachers made appropriate decisions to change instruction for those students who were experiencing slower-than-expected writing progress within DBI, the students showed facilitated writing growth following these instructional changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This exploratory, descriptive study sought to determine the perceptions of special education (SPED) directors and their respective SPED teachers regarding self-efficacy in meeting the diverse needs of students who have English learning challenges and have been identified as having special learning needs. Also, general information regarding the various programs used and ideas concerning the work and interventions with English learners (Els) who receive SPED services were reviewed for possible discussion. Researchers utilised content analysis procedures to review and code the narrative responses from 24 SPED educators and 3 SPED directors. Peer-debriefing sessions occurred and allowed researchers to collapse categories and form themes from the narrative responses. Two themes derived from SPED teachers' responses and one theme from SPED directors' responses. Theme 1 (T1)-SPED Teachers Valued Research-Based Practices, and Theme 2 (T2)-SPED Teachers Expressed Frustration or Lack of Knowledge with the District's ELs Curricular Program's Connection with SPED Services. Researchers determined one viable theme, after two debriefing sessions, from SPED directors' responses, Theme 3 (T3): SPED Directors Providing Outsourced Training Resources to Special Educators was a Source of Self-Efficacy. Researchers concluded more communication and the sharing of research-based instructional resources and coordinating cross curricular trainings were needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the OECD definition of innovative learning environments (ILEs), inclusion is considered a pillar of its design. The depiction of an inclusive ILE from the OECD outlines the importance of including students in ILEs. We wish to argue, however, that the successful implementation of inclusion also needs to address the location of special education teachers within these spaces. Our research provides a 'spaces of belonging' framework that offers support for the successful inclusion of special education teachers within an ILE. Results from our ILE project and interviews with special education teachers in Australia and New Zealand will illustrate the three concepts of 'spaces of belonging', using studies from a range of schools. We hope that the findings will inform future planning and design processes that will promote effective inclusive teaching practices in Australia and New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the perspectives of resource room teachers (RRTs) on their role transformation from regular education teachers to special educators and its influencing factors. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 RRTs from inclusive education schools in Beijing, China. This study found that the RRTs have experienced three stages of role transformation moving from confusion by the new job to conflict among multiple expectations and then to being professionalised as special educators with self-determination. They struggled with multiple roles, felt marginalised and deprofessionalised, and were dominated by a categorical perspective serving students with special educational needs. Moreover, clearly authorised full-time positions, professionalisation, administrative support, and attitudes towards inclusive education were found to be key determinants in RRTs' successful role transformation. The present study concludes that RRTs should be empowered with clear expectations of their roles and responsibilities to lead inclusive education practices in schools and guarantee a stable professional status via sustainable training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of functional differentiation processes in schools, there is a need for multi-professional collaboration. The actors from different professional groups coordinate their pedagogical and/or therapeutic activities within an institutional framework that serves as a container for social tensions (Vogel, 2017). The article shows what traces these tensions leave behind in the interaction between classroom teachers and special education teachers. By analysing a cooperation situation, desymbolisations become visible, described by Alfred Lorenzer (1970) as »language destruction«. The specific achievement of the interaction analysis presented in this article is to interpret the distortions and omissions in communication not as the result of biographically determined conflicts in the individual actors, but as manifestations of institutional tensions in the concrete context. The case study demonstrates how processes of resymbolisation can be used to partially liquefy institutional rigidities and change balances of power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To assess the knowledge about the long-term consequences of preterm birth and the need for training and information among various professionals working with preterm children and parents of preterm children. Methods: In February and March 2018, physicians, psychologists, special education needs teachers, teachers, preschool teachers, and parents (N = 488) filled in the Preterm Birth-Knowledge Scale and a survey regarding their perceptions and attitudes toward working with preterm children. Results: Physicians and psychologists were most knowledgeable among the groups about the long-term consequences of preterm birth. Teachers, preschool teachers, and parents had significantly lower knowledge (F = 23.18, P < 0.001). The majority of professionals indicated that they did not feel adequately equipped to support the learning and development of preterm children and that they had not received sufficient training in this area. More than half indicated that they had received no formal training. In general, the participants tended to underestimate the long-term problems of preterm children. Conclusion The findings underscore the importance of integrating the issue of the long-term outcomes of preterm birth and working with preterm children into formal education, and in other forms of educational activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to eliminate the current deficiency in the use of music in the field of special education, to increase musical activities in special education, and to present an accreditation model proposal to increase the skills of institutions, educators, and students. The research was designed with a grounded theory study pattern, one of the qualitative research methods. Data for the research were collected examining the necessary documents, and through semi-structured interviews with experts in both the field of special education and music. As a result of the interviews, it was concluded that music was used as both a goal and a tool in the education of individuals receiving special education and that different skills were developed through rhythm, melody, and lyrics. It has been revealed that individuals' body coordination skills are improved through the rhythm in music, self-care skills are improved through melodies and lyrics, and behavioral disorders are corrected through rhythm, melodies, and lyrics. All these results led to the emergence of an accreditation model proposal to develop and rehabilitate individuals receiving special education through music. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the writing struggles of students with and at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) served in general and special education classrooms, it is imperative that teachers provide effective writing instruction. One way to learn effective writing skills is through writing instruction through practice-based professional development that scaffolds instructional methods to teach evidence-based writing strategies. Within this article, a framework is described to develop an effective professional development for general and special education teachers who work with struggling writers with and at risk for EBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the experiences of Palestinian parents (n=105) and teachers (n=99) for students with disabilities by the shift to distance Learning during Covid 19, in focusing on communication, student progress, support services, and stress levels. Participants answered a Likert scale questionnaire and three open questions. Findings revealed no significant differences between parents and teachers related to the examine parameters but it is indicated the gender as a significant factor in stress levels. Males, whether parents or teachers, reported less stress. Mothers expressed the least satisfaction with support services, contrasting with female teachers. This highlights possible disparities for mothers in accessing vital support during remote learning. Distance learning introduces distinct challenges, with both teachers and parents highlighting the need for proficiency in online platforms. Emphasizing tech-savviness is crucial in today's educational setting. Both groups stressed the importance of emotional support, extending this need to everyone involved. The conclusion underscores the importance of joint solutions tailored to the specific requirements of students, parents, and teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of the journal Exceptional Children (EC) and its goals of promoting equitable educational access and outcomes for children with disabilities. The editors emphasize the importance of inclusiveness and diversity in the publication process, as well as expanding the theoretical and methodological diversity of scholarship in EC. The newly appointed associate editors, who come from diverse backgrounds and have expertise in various areas related to the education of students with disabilities, are introduced. The article also includes summaries of recent research articles on a range of topics related to special education. [Extracted from the article]

As instructional leaders, principals establish a vision of effective instruction in their schools and support that vision through evaluation and development efforts. Thus, their beliefs about instruction in special education may have direct consequences for special educators and their students. Though research suggests principals lack experience and knowledge regarding special education, few studies explore these beliefs in action. Informed by Kennedy's theory of working knowledge, we used two distinct interview methods to tap into principals' expressed beliefs and beliefs in use when evaluating special education teachers. Findings crack open the "black box" of principals' working knowledge to highlight how underlying beliefs regarding the purpose of special education and students, teaching, and learning drove principals' visions of instructional quality more than specific practices did. We end by highlighting implications regarding how to best support school leaders in fostering effective teaching for students with disabilities and next steps for research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceived appreciation is an important social resource for academic performance, engagement and well-being in both work and higher education contexts. Students who feel valued by their lecturers learn more successfully and tend to drop out of college less often. Research has already shown that teacher candidates feel less valued by their lecturers compared to students in other subject areas. However, these studies did not control for intra-individual differences between subjects. Against this background, we examined how N = 1255 teacher candidates feel appreciated with regard to their competencies by the lecturers in their two subjects of study. Moreover, we investigated which personal and subject-specific factors affect this perception of appreciation. Multi-level analyses showed that the perceived appreciation varies mainly at the subject level, with teacher candidates in STEM subjects feeling less valued. On the basis of a longitudinal subsample (N = 436) we further investigated how the teacher candidates' perceived appreciation is associated with indicators of well-being, intention to drop out of college, and changes in these outcomes over the course of one year. According to the results, students who felt more appreciated by their lecturers were also more satisfied with their studies and courses, reported more subject enthusiasm, were less exhausted and were less inclined to drop out of college. In addition, students who felt appreciated developed more favorably with regard to these outcomes. We discuss our findings in the light of practice-related problem areas such as teacher shortage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the desired future images of an inclusive school. In its policy documents, Finland has been committed to goals of inclusive education for decades; however, there are still challenges in its implementation. By utilising futures workshops, our research explores the factors envisioned by special education teacher students regarding the desired future of an inclusive school. The factors form three dimensions: structural, social, and emotional. Additionally, certain factors were assessed to fit into more than one dimension, which results in four overlapping aspects of services, commitment, a meaningful school path, and the school's comprehensive role in the community. Our results emphasise the systemic nature of inclusion in education, which further reinforces the understanding of inclusion as a process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parallel support is a Greek type of special education provision aiming at providing additional support to students identified with special educational needs and/or disability in mainstream classrooms. Drawing from quantitative data for the school-year 2018–2019 this paper presents findings on certain characteristics of primary and pre-primary teachers who work in parallel support including gender, educational qualifications, teaching experience and further certifications in braille and/or sign language. In so doing, the paper analyses several shortcomings regarding the staffing of parallel support, especially in relation to teachers' qualifications and teaching experience. Additionally, it reports data on the recruitment procedures of teachers revealing significant delays in the hiring of teachers who work in parallel support. Finally, the paper discusses how the current educational policy creates structural barriers that hinder the educational inclusion of students with special educational needs and/or disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Students identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) benefit from the implementation of evidence‐based practices (EBPs) in all educational settings, including general education classrooms. Research indicates that EBPs are not consistently implemented across educational placements, nor are they always implemented with fidelity. One contextual factor that can influence successful EBP implementation is teacher attitudes toward an EBP. This study examined and compared the attitudes of general education and special education teachers toward EBPs. Study results suggest that special education teachers have more positive attitudes toward EBPs, while general education teachers are more likely to diverge from EBPs to support students with ASD. These findings have implications for improving the implementation of EBPs in both general and special education classrooms for students with disabilities, particularly students with ASD. Practitioner points: Although the amount of time students with autism are spending in the general education setting is increasing, there is a limited understanding of general education teachers' attitudes toward evidence‐based practices for students with autism.Compared to special education teachers, general education teachers are less open to implementing evidence‐based practices for students with autism and less likely to use evidence‐based practices even if required.Implementation strategies that target teacher attitudes toward evidence‐based practices, a malleable implementation factor, may enhance the adoption, implementation, and sustainment of evidence‐based practices for students with autism, leading to improved student outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to compel educators to think critically about how the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a prominent school-based legislation in the United States, and caregiver/parental participation relate to each other and to equity in special education outcomes. I use two illustrative case studies to show how educator's decisions about students, their use of disability policy, and their subsequent interactions with caregivers/parents result in vastly different outcomes for two young boys with a disability, one white and one Black. I outline how the racialized local context of the suburban, primarily white, and wealthy school district of study shaped understandings of difference that influenced how educators related to caregivers/parents, how they determined what was a viable caregiver/parental request for educational services, and how they subsequently leveraged educational resources to meet student needs based on these assumptions. In doing so, I engage with the following overarching question: How do contextual influences affect educators' understandings of what is a viable caregiver/parental request when providing services to students with disabilities? I end with a critical discussion about the presumed benevolence of special educators and special education systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One argument for the inclusion of children with special education needs (SEN) is that they will benefit from the interactions and relationships with their typically developing peers. However, students with SEN tend to be more rejected than their non-SEN peers. Considering the negative consequences of peer rejection on socioemotional development and school adjustment, the current study aims to understand the behavioural correlates and specific characteristics of the students with SEN associated with peer rejection. Participants were 227 students (107 with SEN); 53.7% male; mean age 10.79 (SD = 2.16); attending the 3rd (33.9%), 5th (35.3%) and 7th grades (30.8%). Students filled in a Sociometric task and 47 regular school teachers and 31 special education teachers provided information regarding sociodemographic and educational data, behavioural characteristics and student-teacher relationship. SEN status was the most important predictor of rejection followed by social skills. In the case of students with SEN, less familiarity with peers and a less close student-teacher relationship were also associated with rejection. Thus, the findings emphasise the need of professional development programs to assist teachers in the promotion of positive relationships with their students and a positive peer culture within the class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article titled "A Portrait of an Early-Career Educator" explores the experiences and perspectives of early-career educators. The interviews conducted by the International Educational Excellence Committee revealed that many early-career educators were inspired to become teachers by other educators or family members who were teachers. They expressed satisfaction in building relationships with students and witnessing their growth, but also mentioned challenges such as dealing with low-motivated students, overwhelming responsibilities, and the need for mentorship and support. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding and meeting the needs of early-career educators to attract and retain them in the field. Additionally, the article briefly discusses the life and career of Esther Pilster, a former principal in Omaha, who passed away at the age of 97 and highlights her contributions to education. [Extracted from the article]

We examined factors that lead to the attrition and retention of special education teachers (SETs) based on gender, race, and geographical location. Factors leading to SETs intent to stay or leave teaching is commonly overlooked in research, particularly when controlling for gender and race. Thus, we reviewed survey data of 778 SETs, controlling for gender and race in different settings (urban, suburban, and rural). We found differences between men and women SETs, including significant differences in supports for men and women identifying within the same race/ethnicity demographics in urban settings. We propose research and practice directions for attracting, supporting, and retaining SETs across multiply marginalized groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of interdependent and independent group contingencies on pre-service teachers' performance on class quizzes that reflected their knowledge of evidence-based practices for students with extensive support needs. In the interdependent condition, the course instructor awarded extra credit points to groups of pre-service teachers who performed at 80% or higher on class quizzes. In the independent condition, the course instructor awarded extra credit points to individual pre-service teachers who met the same performance criterion. Quizzes were based on content from weekly course topics in a special education teacher preparation course focusing on evidence-based practices for students with extensive support needs. Group performance improved across all groups with overall higher performance scores in the interdependent contingency. Pre-service teachers reported both contingencies to be effective and valuable. Implications for practice, limitations, and future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) represent a wide range of neurodevelopmental differences associated with prenatal alcohol exposure and are highly prevalent. The current study represents the initial stages in adapting the Families Moving Forward (FMF) Program, an evidence‐based behavioral consultation intervention for caregivers of children with FASD, to a website for teachers. Aims were to understand teachers' needs and preferences for an FASD‐informed intervention website and to assess the goodness of fit of the FMF Program to teachers and the school setting. Twenty‐three teachers with experience teaching students with FASD were interviewed. Interviews were conducted via Zoom and lasted about 53 min on average. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative content analysis in Dedoose. Three overarching themes represented teachers' needs for an FASD‐informed resource: teachers need evidence‐based FASD information and strategies, teachers have very little extra time, and the needs of special and general education teachers vary. Teachers were positive about the concepts of the FMF Program and felt they would have good fit. Teachers need an evidence‐based FASD‐informed intervention that is easy to use, concise, and responsive to varying needs and levels of experience. Results will inform the adaptation process of the FMF Program. Practitioner points: Three overarching themes represented teachers' needs for a fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD)‐informed resource: teachers need evidence‐based FASD information and strategies, teachers have very little extra time, and the needs of special and general education teachers vary.Teachers would generally use the website to learn about FASD when they have a student with FASD, or to share information about FASD with others.Teachers were positive about the concepts of the Families Moving Forward Program and felt they would have good fit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored preservice special education teachers' perceptions regarding special education teacher preparation courses, practicum, and evidence-based practices they recently completed. The participants of the study included five preservice special education teachers from two universities, Shaqra University and King Saud University, in Riyadh. A variety of qualitative interview designs, such as semi-structured interviews and in-depth interviews were employed to gather the data. This involved conducting a total of 15 interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Additionally, peer debriefing and member checks were used to increase the credibility of the study and help prevent personal bias. The study aimed to explore the perceptions of five preservice special education teachers specializing in autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disabilities regarding their experiences in special education teacher preparation in Riyadh universities. The findings revealed that the five preservice special education teachers identified the issues they faced during their 4 years in teachers preparation programs as: (a) limited content of educational strategies and Evidence-Based Practices (b) classroom communication was one-sided (c) redundant content in textbooks (d) course content is focused on theory instead of practical knowledge (e) lack of supervision by their faculty adviser and school members during the practicum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preparing special education preservice teachers (PTs) to serve students with autism includes understanding theoretical foundations of teaching strategies and developing competency in applying the resulting knowledge and strategies within teaching settings. The current pilot study explored the Internet-Based Parent-implemented Communication Strategies (i-PiCS) program, targeting evidence-based teaching practices, as an alternative training method in an autism field-experience course conducted online during the COVID-19 lockdown. The purpose of the pilot study was to explore changes in PTs' knowledge, confidence, and implementation of naturalistic communication teaching strategies in a pre- and postfield-experience course. The participants were nine females enrolled in a 3rd-year special education teacher preparation program. A multimethod assessment was utilized, including self-rating questions, knowledge quizzes, video-model analysis, and videotaped teaching simulations. Quantitative data were graphically displayed and compared. Teaching simulations were analyzed qualitatively. The results showed that all PTs improved the identification of instructional steps. Self-rating of knowledge and confidence level improved as well. Five PTs improved the accuracy of evaluating the instructional steps, albeit the level of fidelity of implementation improved only mildly. We conclude that i-PiCS could be useful for training PTs in a special education program. We discuss the limitations of the current application of i-PiCS and the appropriate implementation modalities that could be further explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2007, the Act on Special Education for Persons with Disabilities in South Korea was enacted, resulting in various changes to the special education teacher training policy and system. Although special education is being developed and operated in response to societal changes and the budget is increased yearly, the controversy over the teacher training system continues in the education field. However, systematic academic research on these issues is insufficient. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to explain the teacher training system in South Korea. First is a brief introduction to the 4-year special education qualification system and its current status in South Korea. Second, two types of training for special education teachers are explained following teacher qualification. Third, the issues surrounding the special education training program are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Providing appropriate academic evaluation and intervention services for English learners remains a challenging goal for school support teams. Understanding English language proficiency assessment and universal screening processes can help teams make better decisions when considering possible continued intervention or referral for a comprehensive special education evaluation. This article will help school teams understand what information they should consider when determining whether to begin or continue an academic intervention or refer a student for a special education evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document provides instructions on how to create a digital resource map using Google My Maps to support young people with disabilities and their families. The map can be personalized and customized to align with individual goals and can be used to organize and display various assets, such as locations, services, and resources. The goal is to empower students and families with knowledge about available resources to make informed decisions about their transition goals. The map can also be used during planning and IEP meetings to explore available assets and track student progress. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores adult student transition programs, which are designed to support adult students with disabilities in their transition to postsecondary education, employment, and independent living. It highlights the importance of strategic planning and assessment in creating and improving these programs. The Quality Indicators for Adult Student Transition Programs tool is recommended as a valuable resource for evaluating and enhancing program effectiveness. The article emphasizes the need for a continuous improvement process and outlines five steps for implementing improvements. It encourages districts to engage in this process to enhance the post-school experiences of students with disabilities. [Extracted from the article]

Self-determination consists of essential skills for students with disabilities because it gives individuals the power to make decisions based on their own needs and desires. Self-determination includes areas such as choice-making, goal setting, and self-directed learning. Music therapy is a service that can be used to enhance self-determination for students within the educational setting. Through intentional collaboration, music therapists and special educators can bring together their expertise to promote self-determination in students with disabilities. As members of students' Individualized Educational Programs (IEPs), both professionals are working towards the common interest of fulfilling individuals' goals and needs. The authors of this manuscript outline and describe a three-step process for collaboration between music therapists and special educators to promote self-determination among students while also providing a vignette to demonstrate this practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid‐19 pandemic forced an international shutdown of in‐person learning. Remote learning became the temporary model of education for students. The intention of this study was to investigate teacher perceptions and experiences of remote learning, in order to understand its impact on students with exceptionalities and their social and emotional learning (SEL). The research design for this qualitative study encompassed multiple cases that included teacher interviews with a semi‐structured interview protocol. The sample for this study consisted of 16 educators: eight elementary mainstream education teachers, three elementary special education teachers and five related service providers. Interviews were transcribed and coded using grounded theory. There were three themes that emerged from this research, however, in this article the author focuses on the most prevalent theme: students' SEL deficits and exceptions. SEL deficits include emotional regulation, lack of engagement and perseverance. Exceptions found include advocating for oneself and being tech savvy. The data strongly suggest the need for change. The findings of this study may help support the reimagining of special education, teacher practices, and how to integrate SEL into the curriculum throughout the day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Students with disabilities such as visual impairment (VI) face challenges in accessing education, mainly owing to their inability to participate in learning activities in the classroom. While experts in special education have discussed the deployment of assistive technology (AT) to support the learning of students with VI, research on its impact is very scarce, especially in non‐western countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). To bridge this gap, this study explored special education teachers' perceptions regarding the effectiveness of AT in supporting the learning and mobility of students with VI in schools. A total of 228 special education teachers from three regions in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, UAE, participated in the study. The participants completed an assistive technology for VI scale, and the data were subjected to mean score computation, multivariate analyses of variance and correlation and hierarchical multiple regression. Participants rated the impact of AT highly with regard to the reading, writing and orientation and mobility skills of students with VI. Interestingly, the orientation/mobility sub‐scale showed an association with teacher experience and location. The article discusses the practical implications of the findings as well as directions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to explore the status, influencing factors and paths on professional identity of special education teachers. The statistical population of the study included 438 special education teachers in Guangdong Province, China. The age of the participants ranged from 22 to 57 years old (M = 32.16, SD = 1.85 years). Of the 438 teachers, 346 were females, 92 were males. The Occupational Stress Questionnaire (He, J. H. 2013. A Study on the Occupational Stress and Work Engagement of Special Education Teacher. Hangzhou: Hangzhou Preschool Normal College of Zhejiang Normal University), School Support Questionnaire (Zhang, Y. 2018. Study on Professional Identity and School Support of Special Education Teachers in Guizhou. Chengdu: Sichuan Normal University), and Professional Identity Questionnaire (Tang, J. R. 2012. Study on Professional Identity of Special School Teachers. Shanghai: East China Normal University) were used. The independent sample t-test, one way ANOVA, correlation analysis, and multiple stepwise regression were used for the data analysis. The results show that: (1) the professional identity of special education teachers is relatively high in the overall and dimensions. (2) There are significant differences in the professional identity in terms of leadership, marriage, education level, teaching years and professional titles. (3) Both occupational stress and school support can significantly predict the professional identity of special education teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This project investigates teachers’ lived experiences of instructional collaboration in mainstream and inclusive education settings, looking both at the factors that special and general education teachers believe hinder instructional collaboration, and those that teachers identify as critical to facilitating it. The study draws upon a transcendental phenomenological approach, with initial in-depth and follow-up interviews with nine special and general education teachers from the southern region of Saudi Arabia. The data analysis generated several themes and a number of sub-themes that helped provide a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. These themes were school culture, work pressure, and facilitating factors. Thus, examining the experiences of teachers in inclusive instructional collaboration settings revealed various factors that influence the successful implementation of this practice. Recommendations for future directions that may contribute to strengthening instructional collaboration in schools are discussed in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to ongoing and severe teacher shortages, preparing and sustaining a skilled special education teacher (SET) workforce is a top policy priority. Understanding predictors of SETs' intent to leave is crucial for policy makers and school leaders alike, as they seek to develop interventions to support retention efforts. In this study, we examined attrition intentions among SETs serving students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBDs), using longitudinal survey data from a U.S. nationally representative sample of teachers in the 2019–2020 school year (fall-winter-spring). We measured teachers' self-efficacy and burnout in fall, winter, and spring as well as teachers' intent to leave in spring. We found all three dimensions of fall burnout (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment) had an indirect effect on spring intent to leave. All three dimensions of burnout in the spring predicted intent to leave, as did winter scores on depersonalization. Cross-time relationships between of dimensions of self-efficacy and burnout were revealed; however, at no timepoint was self-efficacy a significant predictor of intent to leave in spring, whether directly or indirectly. We discuss implications for both practitioners and researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-regulated strategy development (SRSD) is an evidence-based practice for writing that is effective in improving the writing performance of elementary students with learning disabilities and the broader student population. In this manuscript, we provide guidance for elementary instructional coaches in facilitating a schoolwide adoption of SRSD for writing instruction. We outline the steps for instructional coaches to conduct practice-based professional development and then discuss ways instructional coaches can support teachers and oversee schoolwide SRSD implementation. Finally, we present ways that instructional coaches can be a valuable resource for teachers in differentiating SRSD instruction to meet students' needs and to track students' growth. By fostering a schoolwide implementation, coaches can harness the power of additive knowledge, increase teacher knowledge of evidence-based pedagogical practices, and increase the writing skills of all students, including those with learning disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When using response to intervention (RTI) for special education eligibility decisions, multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) may use performance level and rate of improvement (ROI) as two metrics when evaluating student responsiveness. Although examining student responsiveness to instruction is a critical component of an evaluation using RTI, previous research suggests that final level of performance is the main factor in MDT decisions. ROI is influenced by pre-intervention performance and is also inherently captured in students' postintervention level, potentially limiting ROI's utility as a distinct indicator of performance. To address these issues with ROI, this study examined whether initial performance level and ROI improve actual MDT decisions about special education eligibility beyond the final level of performance. Results indicate that initial level of performance and ROI add no additional value to predicting MDT's eligibility decisions when using RTI despite identified students having significantly lower initial performance levels and lower ROIs than their nonidentified peers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The social and emotional competence of adolescents serves as the cornerstone for their success and future development. This study aims to explore the impact of distributed leadership on the social and emotional competence of adolescents, examining the mediating roles of student-centered teaching practices and teacher self-efficacy. Utilizing survey data from 7246 Chinese adolescents in the SESS project, the study employs a multi-level structural equation modeling approach for data analysis. The results indicate that distributed leadership positively predicts the social and emotional competence of adolescents. Furthermore, distributed leadership exerts indirect effects on adolescents' social and emotional competence through the independent mediating roles of student-centered teaching practices and teacher self-efficacy, as well as a sequential mediation process involving student-centered teaching practices leading to teacher self-efficacy. This study elucidates how distributed leadership facilitates the development of adolescents' social and emotional competence, confirming the supportive factors influencing these crucial capacities. Simultaneously, it provides valuable insights into the daily practices of teachers, principals, and administrators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the implementation of the school-based Prevent-Teach-Reinforce (PTR) model for elementary school students who engage in high levels of challenging behavior. Three students (one with speech or language impairment and two without disabilities) and their classroom teachers in two public schools participated in the team-based PTR process, which involved teaming and goal setting, functional behavior assessment, intervention, and evaluation. A multiple-baseline-across-participants design was used to evaluate the impact of PTR on student behaviors. Direct and indirect observations of student behaviors were conducted across target and generalization academic time periods. The findings indicated that the PTR intervention effectively improved the classroom behaviors of all three participating students in both target and generalization academic time periods, decreasing disruptive behavior and increasing on-task behavior. Social validity assessments with the participating teachers and one student indicated high levels of acceptability of and satisfaction with the PTR intervention goals, procedures, and outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The choices for public school education in the United States have evolved to include Montessori programmes. As a result, special education practices have become visible in Montessori, making collaboration essential. The exploration of how Montessori and special education teachers collaborate through the identified constructs of (a) shared planning, (b) frequent communication, (c) shared vision, (d) mutual respect, and (e) joint trust despite the evident philosophical differences is important for students in inclusion. Data sources included in-depth interviews with teachers to identify patterns related to collaboration in Montessori public schools. Findings indicated that there is a need to establish a clear plan for connecting philosophies and for collaboration for students in inclusion, not only in the context of United States public Montessori programmes, but for Montessori practitioners in other regions and school settings. Recommendations include using a terminology comparison activity in teacher professional development and implementing an Inclusion Professional Learning Community to address the barrier of time to proactively create deep collaborative relationships built upon the established collaborative constructs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inclusive education in Ireland has made major advances in the past two decades, with an increasing number of students with special educational needs (SEN) attending mainstream schools. This paper is part of a bigger study which examines the Special Education Teacher Allocation Model (SETAM) (Circular 0013/2017 Department of Education and Skills 2017) as the current model to support inclusion in practice in Irish primary schools. Guided by a constructivist paradigm, a mixed-methods approach was adopted to reveal the workings of the SETAM, in the Context of Practice. This paper presents the findings from the first phase of data collection; a national, online survey. Findings show that greater teacher autonomy to identify students' needs and allocate support, under this model, was welcomed by participants. However, limited continuous professional development sees some teachers feeling underprepared to identify such needs. More collaborative and inclusive practice is evident since the introduction of the SETAM, with increased use of in-class support for students with SEN. These findings may inform key stakeholders in inclusive education policy and practice, at a national and international level, by unveiling areas of success and potential for improvement, as recognised by Irish teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collaboration among different teacher profiles is one of the most important factors in meeting the needs of pupils with special needs. In a study of 138 teachers from different regions of Slovenia (57 special education teachers and 85 visual art teachers), we investigated how they collaborate when working with pupils with severe specific learning difficulties and how this collaboration relates to their professional development. The online questionnaire survey found that most participating professionals felt that collaboration was necessary, and 25% had not yet collaborated. Those who have collaborated most often consult informally in hallways and work as a team in expert groups for individualised programmes. The most common team teaching approach is for the visual arts teacher to lead the art class and the special education teacher to assist the teacher by providing support to the pupils with and without learning difficulties. They also see many benefits for the pupils and themselves in this type of collaboration and follow the desirable - positive - side of the S model of professional development. An analysis of the situation in practise can form the basis for recommendations on how to promote professional development in collaboration between these pedagogical professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]