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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Special education'
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1
Hayward, Joseph Thaddeus. "The special education director, the elementary school principal, and special education leadership /." Access Digital Full Text version, 1989. http://pocketknowledge.tc.columbia.edu/home.php/bybib/10901383.
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Thesis (Ed.D.)--Teachers College, Columbia University, 1989.<br>Typescript; issued also on microfilm. Sponsor: Thurston A. Atkins. Dissertation Committee: Kay Alicyn Ferrell. Bibliography: leaves 122-132.
2
Russell, Pamela J. "Special education administrators' perceptions of mandatory comparability of special education rooms to regular education rooms /." Search for this dissertation online, 2006. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/ksu/main.
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McKenzie, Patricia Jay. "Early childhood : special education." Thesis, University of British Columbia, 1987. http://hdl.handle.net/2429/26874.
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This study examines the growth and development of a program for the preparation of special education teachers in Early Childhood Education, Following an overview of historical perspectives in Early Childhood and Special Education, including international influences, models which would aid in the development of such a program are discussed.
The Provincial Child Care Facilities Licensing Board and the Ministry of Education, of British Columbia expressed a wish for the development of post-basic special education programs in Early Childhood Education and their willingness to fund several programs in the province. Their critieria and support is included in a description of the development, implementation and evaluation of the Early Childhood: Special Education Program at Vancouver Community College? Langara Campus.
The purpose of this study is, therefore, to provide
information on the development of such a program and to examine
the needs and possible future directions of teacher preparation
in special education for Early Childhood Education.<br>Education, Faculty of<br>Graduate
4
Sexton, Corrine M. "Successful special education practices." Access to citation, abstract and download form provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company; downloadable PDF file, 96 p, 2007. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1390300381&sid=4&Fmt=2&clientId=8331&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
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Roach, Amanda Janelle. "Teacher burnout special education versus regular education /." [Huntington, WV : Marshall University Libraries], 2009. http://www.marshall.edu/etd/descript.asp?ref=973.
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Newton, Norrisa. "Examining Attrition Among Bahamian Special Education Teachers and Implications for Special Education Reform." ScholarWorks, 2018. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/5508.
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Increasing levels of teacher attrition in special education within Bahamian public schools are preventing students with learning disabilities from achieving their learning goals within inclusive classroom settings. Addressing factors that influence attrition is vital to enhance the quality of education and the efficacy of educators while supporting positive social change. The purpose of this general qualitative study was to ascertain why Bahamian educators leave special education. This was achieved by exploring the influencing factors that have incited the decisions of public special education teachers within The Bahamas to resign or request premature retirement from the teaching profession, as well as how job satisfaction influences teacher retention within The Bahamas' public education system. Twelve Bahamian public educators (8 former special educators, 3 current reading specialists, and 1 current resource teacher) from a major city were randomly selected to participate in semistructured interviews. Data were analyzed via open coding. Job satisfaction, social cognitive, and social cognitive career theories were used as a lens through which to understand educators' career decisions. Findings revealed that Bahamian educators leave special education due to (a) lack of specialized training, (b) lack of administrative support, and (c) burnout. Contrary to existing literature, findings revealed that poor student behavior does not significantly influence attrition among educators, and a love for children does not significantly motivate teachers to remain. Mentoring and induction programs were cited as ineffective means of teacher retention. Educators are more likely to stay when they feel valued, appreciated, supported, and respected by administrators, colleagues, and parents.
7
Smith, Roy George. "Gender and special education : what makes boys so special?" Thesis, Goldsmiths College (University of London), 2000. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.313295.
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This study is concerned with those pupils registered as having 'special educational needs' within mainstream schools and also those who attend special schools of non normative designations and seeks to explain the over - representation of white working class boys amongst such populations. The processes of identification and subsequent allocation to non normative special categories are argued to be both class and gender biased and to represent the placement of pupils so identified along a continuum of exclusion, being an indication of their failure in conventional terms. An approach is developed which attempts to make the link between such failure and wider social and educational processes, viewing schooling as a form of cultural politics and seeing such politics as being intimately linked to wider structural relations. To this end the work of Pierre Bourdieu is employed. The aim of the research is to test and also to develop Bourdieu's theories of social and cultural reproduction and particularly his concept of habitus and its gendered embodied nature, as a means of illuminating the processes involved in the generation of these differential outcomes. The study takes the form of qualitative in-depth semi structured interviews with teachers from eight schools, five special and three mainstream, in order to generate detailed contextualised knowledge of the processes by which pupils may have been identified as having special educational needs within mainstream schools and then possibly allocated to special schools and of the assumptions perceptions and understandings of those teachers in special schools at the 'receiving end' of these processes. The resultant data is analysed using a conceptual framework provided by Bourdieu's theories. The study is placed within the context of the recent history I politics of special educational practices through a consideration of legislative and other developments of the past twenty years or so which are argued to have led to an increase in exclusionary pressures despite the rhetori~al emphases throughout most of this time firstly on Integration and latterly on inclusion.
8
Dykstra, Patricia. "Common characteristics of successful special education referrals : initial referrals resulting in special education placement." Online version, 2002. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2002/2002dykstrap.pdf.
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Suelter, Barbara L. Halinski Ronald S. Thomas Clayton F. "Building administrator participation in special education a factor in special education teacher job satisfaction /." Normal, Ill. Illinois State University, 1986. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/ilstu/fullcit?p8616850.
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Thesis (Ed. D.)--Illinois State University, 1986.<br>Title from title page screen, viewed July 13, 2005. Dissertation Committee: Ronald S. Halinski, Clayton F. Thomas (co-chairs), Robert L. Arnold, Thomas E. Caldwell, Mary Ann Lynn. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 72-78) and abstract. Also available in print.
10
Mandrell, Christy Dee. "Teacher effectiveness in special education /." View online, 1986. http://repository.eiu.edu/theses/docs/32211998880884.pdf.
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Peterson, Deborah. "Parental participation in special education." Menomonie, WI : University of Wisconsin--Stout, 2005. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2005/2005petersond.pdf.
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12
Chung, Holly Elizabeth. "Paraeducators in special education classrooms /." view abstract or download file of text, 2006. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1283962601&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=11238&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
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Thesis (D. Ed.)--University of Oregon, 2006.<br>Typescript. Includes vita and abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 119-124). Also available for download via the World Wide Web; free to University of Oregon users.
13
Collins, Rob. "Computer applications to special education." Thesis, Keele University, 1989. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.238175.
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This thesis investigates the way in which software for adults with severe learning difficulties should be designed. Literature from educational technology, the psychology of mental handicap and computer science is reviewed from the Author's viewpoint of software engineering. The literature review points to a need for the design of systems in this area to be a multidisciplinary activity. Four case studies in software development for adults with severe learning difficulties are described. These track the development of software systems from conception, through design and development to evaluation. The thesis then proceeds to show that technically adequate software is in itself not enough and that there is a need for staff support and staff development. Systems to implement these for staff working with adults who have severe learning difficulties are proposed and evaluated. The thesis concludes with specific design criteria and argues for a more holistic view of design within software development for social settings.
14
Kottas, Vasileios. "Special Education in Greece: Review." Thesis, Högskolan Dalarna, Religionsvetenskap, 2020. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:du-33801.
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Special education has been a major topic of discussion in all countries of the European Union. Initially, the lack of efforts to establish a system for the protection of the rights of people with disabilities in education received international attention already in the 1980s. The continuation of the efforts was made at the level of the European Union, helping to present the first signs of an institutional national foundation of the rights of the people with special needs. In Greece, society and the legislator proved to be unprepared. Social inclusion and school acceptance of pupils with disabilities was inadequate. In contrast, in the Scandinavian countries the phenomenon of solidarity and welfare is more pronounced. In conclusion, the signs of improving the Greek legislative framework, developing a major political conscience and social "de-stereotyping" are encouraging.
15
McKinney, Judith. "The Privatization of Special Education." VCU Scholars Compass, 2011. http://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/etd/2387.
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This study, The Privatization of Special Education, addresses a shift in the provision of special education and related services to students with disabilities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Students with disabilities are being publicly placed in private day and residential schools at public expense. In Virginia, 125 private schools are licensed by the Virginia Department of Education to serve students with Disabilities. The purpose of this study was to develop a profile of programs, services, and interventions offered in private education schools. This nonexperimental design study focused on a secondary data source: the Virginia Department of Education, Private Schools for Students With Disabilities 2010 Annual Survey. Completed surveys were returned by all 125 schools. Results indicated that the majority of private schools licensed to serve students with disabilities are day schools. Students with an Emotional Disability, Other Health Impairment, Specific Learning Disability, and Autism are the most frequently reported disability classifications. Schools tend to be run by corporations and report being accredited by the Virginia Association of Special Education Facilities. Schools offer varying curricula, programs, and services in a variety of settings. This comprehensive profile adds to the body of knowledge or private schools serving students with disabilities in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
16
Parikh, Radha Mani. "Computing technology in special education /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 2002. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p3060692.
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Jonzon, Louic. ""Special education" på Nya Zeeland : En beskrivande studie om Special education på en nyzeeländsk grundskola." Thesis, Karlstad University, Faculty of Arts and Education, 2010. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kau:diva-5472.
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Henderson, Jasolyn L. "Disproportionality in special education the relationship between prereferral intervention teams and the special education process /." unrestricted, 2008. http://etd.gsu.edu/theses/available/etd-04162008-224841/.
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Thesis (Ph. D.)--Georgia State University, 2008.<br>Title from file title page. Stephen Truscott, committee chair; Andrew Roach, Deborah Crockett, T. Chris Oshima, Miles Irving, committee members. Electronic text (164 p.) : digital, PDF file. Description based on contents viewed Aug. 5, 2008. Includes bibliographical references (p. 143-164).
19
Oketch, Skeeter A. "Special education in Kenya evolution or revolution: comparison with the British system of special education." Thesis, Wichita State University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10057/2436.
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Disability is not inability. A common phrase used so many times. What are we doing to prove this phrase right? The purpose of this thesis was to examine the plight of children with disabilities in Kenya, what systems have been placed in Kenya to assist students with disabilities and what the government and community has done to help and provide independence to these children with various disabilities in the country. Comparisons were made to the British education systems since Kenya was a British colony, to come up with best practice and offer solutions if any that can be introduced in Kenya, to improve the special education system. The thesis also looked at Nigeria a country in Africa that has one of the best special education systems in Africa, and a former British colony to come up with recommendations to help improve special education in Kenya.
A historical qualitative research method was used to compare these three systems to gather information on how far both Britain and Nigeria have improved their special education system, long after the British set education systems in both Kenya and Nigeria.
It was concluded that inclusive education had proven a success in both Nigeria and Britain in providing independence and transition to adulthood to children with disabilities with minimal assistance where necessary. Kenya has a plan that includes mainstreaming students into the general education classrooms, however, most of this is in draft form, and much must be done for this to be effective. Another important recommendation was public awareness, since there is a lot of ignorance in Kenya in the area of disabilities.<br>Thesis (M.Ed.)--Wichita State University, College of Education, Dept. of Curriculum and Instruction
20
Henderson, Jasolyn Lashon. "Disproportionality in Special Education: The Relationship Between Prereferral Intervention Teams and the Special Education Process." Digital Archive @ GSU, 2008. http://digitalarchive.gsu.edu/cps_diss/22.
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The disproportionality of minority students in special education has received much attention throughout the years. Prereferral Intervention Teams (PITs) have been frequently recommended as a means of diminishing disproportionality. One purpose of this study was to examine the impact of PITs on the special education process. This was achieved through the calculation of risk ratios by ethnic/racial group at key phases of the special education process, (a) including referral to PITs, (b) referral for initial evaluations, (c) referral for special education, and (d) special education placement phases. Results indicated that African American students were significantly more likely to be represented at each phase. This study also aimed to determine if there was a difference in PIT implementation based on ethnicity and whether or not students proceeded through the special education process. There were significant correlations (p < .05) found between the “Behavioral Definition” and “Hypothesized Reason for Problem” components of the problem-solving process and phases of the special education process. Significant correlations (p < .05) were also observed between ethnicity, initial evaluations, and special education referrals and also between initial evaluations, special education referrals, and special education placements (p < .01). Using the Likert Scale and Scoring Rubric for Problem-solving Components to assess PIT implementation on 251 PIT records, five component scores of the scale served as dependent variables, while independent variables included ethnicity (Black/White), being referred for an initial evaluation (yes/no), and being referred for special education (yes/no). The results of 2 x 2 ANOVAs showed statistically significant differences (p < .10) between PIT records for students who were and were not referred for initial evaluations and students who were and were not referred for special education on only one component of PIT implementation. This indicates that overall PIT implementation was similar between students of different ethnicities, as well as between students who progressed through the special education process and those that did not. The current findings emphasized the importance of ensuring quality implementation of PITs and demonstrated their limited impact on disproportionality and student outcomes, such as referrals to special education, when implemented with poor integrity.
21
Phillips, Ronald Sydney. "Special education: The status of special education services in Indian band-operated schools in Manitoba." Diss., The University of Arizona, 1994. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/187017.
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For many years Indian students requiring special education services were sent to provincial schools where services were provided. In 1985, the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) began providing funds to Indian band-operated schools for support of special education services. During the past nine years, parents, teachers, and administrators of band-operated schools have expressed concerned about the lack of and the quality of special education services in band-operated schools. There is an absence of information regarding the provision of special education services in band-operated schools in Manitoba. The purpose of this study is to describe the status of special education in these schools. The methodology of this study included surveys and in-depth interviews with principals of six band-operated schools in Manitoba. Two schools were randomly selected from each of three student enrollment categories (1200-750; 650-300; and 150-50). The major findings of this study confirm the concerns of parents, teachers, and administrators that the special education delivery system is not meeting the needs of disabled Indian students. Reasons for the lack of comprehensive services included: inefficient administrative structure; insufficient numbers of trained personnel; inconsistency of programs and services; absence of operating procedures; and lack of parent and community involvement. Eight activities are recommended for improving the quantity and quality of special education services to Canadian Indian children. First, planning committees need to be established at the band-operated school and tribal council level to develop cooperative plans for providing special education services to meet existing needs. Second, an Indian controlled special education organization should be developed consisting of band-operated schools, tribal councils, and a provincial agency. Such an organization can develop, support, and monitor special education activities. Third, the kinds and numbers of special education personnel must be increased. Fourth, there is a need to develop special education programs and services. Fifth, policies for efficient and effective operating procedures need to be written. Sixth, all students needing special education services should be identified and served. Seventh, parent and community involvement with band-operated schools must be encouraged. Eighth, additional research is needed in other Indian band-operated schools and reserves before these findings can be generalized.
22
Ashby, Marlene. "Special Ideas." TopSCHOLAR®, 1988. http://digitalcommons.wku.edu/theses/1856.
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Special Ideas is a composite of practical strategies and techniques assembled for the primary-grade teacher’s use with the learning disabled student, slow learner and underachiever. The focal point of this material is the basic skills of reading, math, spelling, handwriting and general ideas on classroom management, behavior management and motivation. The purpose of the material is to provide the classroom teacher with practical ideas that may serve as a guide to help the teacher adapt and/or modify the curriculum, the materials, and the methods of instruction to the needs of the special child. The sources for these ideas include personal experiences, a variety of periodicals and other educational materials. Many of the ideas are written to help the child who learns best by using a specific mode such as visibility, auditorially or by tactile-kinesthetic methods.
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Sindelar, Paul T., and Lori J. Marks. "Alternative Route Training: Implications for Elementary Education and Special Education." Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University, 1993. https://dc.etsu.edu/etsu-works/3530.
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In this paper, we review findings from 19 studies of alternative route programs and conclude that they have not been shown to be inferior to traditional programs. These programs are program evaluations and lack many of the controls typical of experimental work; as a result, the findings may be less trustworthy than necessary for reasoned decision-making. Problems inherent in conducting studies of this sort are discussed and illustrated with examples from this literature. The appropriateness of the secondary content area model for elementary and special education is considered from both theoretical and empirical perspectives.
24
Hatchell, Eryn. "Regular education and special education teacher attitudes toward inclusion." Online version, 2009. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2009/2009hatchelle.pdf.
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Olson, Jennifer Marie. "Special education and general education teacher attitudes toward inclusion." Online version, 2003. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2003/2003olsonj.pdf.
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Charley, Carmen Yvette. "General Education and Special Education Teachers' Attitudes Toward Inclusion." ScholarWorks, 2015. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/458.
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Educational reformers have mandated inclusion of students with disabilities in the general education classroom. However, general education teachers often do not regularly receive training in inclusive practices, and this lack of training can affect teachers' attitudes and levels of self-efficacy, which may ultimately affect their ability to successfully teach students with disabilities. The purpose of this study was to examine the difference in general education and special education teachers' attitudes towards inclusion of students with disabilities and if levels of self-efficacy (overall and 3 subscales), gender, education level, teacher type, and grade level taught were predictors of Teachers' Attitudes Toward Inclusion. The theoretical framework for this cross-sectional study was Bandura's theory of self-efficacy. The sample consisted of 118 elementary and middle school teachers in a rural district in South Carolina. Data were collected using an online survey, and a 2-way ANOVA and multiple regression were conducted to answer the research questions. Results indicated that special education teachers' attitudes towards inclusion were significantly more positive than those of general education teachers and that teacher type and the 3 self-efficacy subscales were predictors of Teachers' Attitudes Toward Inclusion. For each, higher levels of self-efficacy were associated with more positive attitudes toward inclusion. Social change may be achieved if school district administrators implement teacher training to improve teacher self-efficacy regarding inclusive practices. By doing so, teachers might increase their appropriate use of inclusive strategies, which might ultimately improve student outcomes.
27
Rich, Elizabeth. "No special education child left behind? a review of NCLB and its effects on special education /." Diss., Connect to the thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10066/1395.
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Singh, Suruchi. "Knowledge of Special Education Law Among Administrators in a Southern California Special Education Local Plan Area." Thesis, Brandman University, 2015. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3685704.
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<p> The purpose of this study was (a) to identify the knowledge of special education law among administrators within a SELPA in California and (b) to identify the training needs of administrators; 65 administrators participated in this quantitative study, yielding a response rate of 84%. A survey created on the six principles of IDEA was used with administrators (principals and assistant principals) who serve approximately 42,000 students at 50 public schools. Analysis of data revealed that Hypothesis 1, which projected that 51% or more administrators would perceive their knowledge of special education law as average or better, was supported. Hypothesis 2, which predicted that 51% or more administrators would not be able to attain the 70% criterion of basic knowledge on the survey of knowledge of special education law, was supported by the findings of the study. Hypothesis 3, which anticipated a positive gap between perceived and actual knowledge of special education law for administrators, was supported. Hypothesis 4, which predicted a positive relationship between administrators' education level, position, years of experience as an administrator, and their actual knowledge of special education law, had partial support. A positive significant correlation was found between participants' current position and their total knowledge of special education law. Hypothesis 5, which anticipated a positive gap between the administrators' training needs and their actual assessed knowledge of special education law, was supported. Training areas of IDEA principles that require expanded emphasis include LRE, procedural safeguards, FAPE, evaluation, and parental participation. The results of this study will guide administrators to proactively and eagerly embrace the need to expand their knowledge, experiences, and professional acuity in special education. As for future research, effective communication and collaboration between administrators and parents should be studied in light of its impact on litigation. Additionally, a similar study, using the same survey, should be conducted with district superintendents and the results studied in light of their respective special education programs. Lastly, the field may benefit from a Delphi study utilizing a panel of experts to study and support the need for administrative training in special education. </p>
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Johnson, Amanda R. "Issues of equity among team members in special education: Voices of parents new to special education." Scholarly Commons, 2018. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/3552.
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The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires local education agencies to include parents as equal team members in the cultivation of their child’s individual education plan (IEP). Despite law, studies have shown that parents experience barriers to being included in the process. Barriers such as a lack of information, lack of understanding of the law, and feelings of unequal status or power as compared to school district team members have been noted. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions, feelings, and understanding of the initial IEP process as experienced by parents new to the world of special education.
This study took the form of two research articles, each with a set of three research questions. Through the utilization of narrative inquiry, I was able to listen to the stories of parents as they tried to navigate their way through the initial IEP experiences, hear who supported their understanding along the way, learn how parents perceived their role during their journey, feel the emotions that parents shared feeling during their experiences, and find out if parents knew their procedural safeguard rights.
The most impactful barriers for parents new to special education was the lack of adherence to legal timelines. Parent requests for special education assessment took up to two years for some parents. Lack of information and understanding of the IEP process and law was another major hurdle for participants. Without adequate information and understanding parents felt a power imbalance and feeling of being taken advantage of. Parents described a disconnect regarding how they viewed their parent role and how the school district viewed their role. A copious amount of praise was given to family resource centers for their support and trainings offered to parents.
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Rudebusch, Judith. "Analysis of Special Education Compliance and Special Education Funding in Four Texas Open-Enrollment Charter Schools." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2003. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc4394/.
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The purpose of this study was to conduct an in-depth examination of special education services in open-enrollment charter schools in north Texas and to examine relationships between special education compliance and funding. Six questions guided the research: How have the charter schools designed special education services, and do these services meet individual needs of students with disabilities? Have federal education and disability laws affected charter schools' admissions, operations, or student performance ratings? What were the levels of special education funding and compliance with federal and state regulations? Is there a relationship between special education funding and special education compliance with rules and regulations? Studies at the national and state levels have frequently been conducted in the form of surveys, and provide only preliminary information about the status of special education in charter schools. There is a paucity of case specific information about the management and delivery of special education services in open-enrollment charter schools. A within-case study research design was used for this investigation utilizing qualitative methods of structured open-ended interviews, observations at the schools, and document analysis. Administrators at four open-enrollment charter schools were interviewed to gather data for this multi-case study. The data supported the hypotheses related to special education services in open-enrollment charter schools. The schools in this study provided special education services with an inclusion model for the first two years. In their first years of operation, charter schools face challenges of small budgets, few if any special education students, and difficulty finding special education teachers and other staff. In the third year and beyond, the schools were able to add special education services and staff and were more stable in terms of budget and operations. For the time period analyzed, special education costs exceeded special education funding. Compliance with special education regulations was relatively high as services were provided to students with mild disabilities with a high commitment to individualized instruction.
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Cunningham, Kimberly Alaine. "Special Education Teachers' Perspectives Regarding Needed Support to Retain Special Educators." ScholarWorks, 2019. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/7222.
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School leaders across the United States have documented a shortage of special education teachers, and special educators are leaving the field at double the rate of their general education peers. Researchers have indicated that this shortage is due to inadequate training and education, work load, and lack of administrative support. However, it is unclear what supports are needed to increase retention rates of special educators. This qualitative case study was designed to explore the perspectives of special educators regarding supports needed to improve special education retention rates in relation to the job characteristic theory and teachers' reasons for staying in the literature. Purposeful sampling was used to select 15 special education teachers with resource or self-contained teaching experience from 3 public schools of varying levels in 1 school district. Data were collected through semi structured interviews and open and a priori coding were used to develop themes. Key results from the study extended current knowledge related to the job characteristics framework of social support, autonomy, feedback, task significance and interdependence. The participants identified specific supports needed as additional time for tasks, awareness and understanding from colleagues, provision of peer mentors and peer observations, specific and meaningful assistance from administrators regarding behavioral issues and feedback regarding work performance. All participants reported remaining in the field because they enjoyed helping students succeed. The recommendations provided in this study might be used by school leaders to make informed decisions to retain special educators. Improving retention rates of special educators could save school districts money on new hires while increasing the number of highly qualified special educators needed to meet the needs of students with disabilities.
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Taylor, Deborah. "Special Education Students and Standardized Assessments." Thesis, Lindenwood University, 2017. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10249256.
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<p> Special education students with many different disabilities are taught in today’s classrooms, and since the passing of the No Child Left Behind Act in 2001, they are required to take the same standardized assessments as their regular education peers (Resmovits, 2013). Within this study, data were analyzed to determine the perceptions of two groups, which included third-grade regular education teachers and special education teachers of special education students who took the same standardized assessments as their regular education peers. In addition, data were also examined to determine if there was a relationship between how teachers from the two groups responded to survey statements and how students actually scored on the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) for the years 2012-2014. Finally, data were analyzed to determine the perceptions of the two groups on the use of special education students’ assessment results for teacher evaluations. Sixty-three (<i>N</i> = 63) teachers, 30 regular and 33 special education teachers, from the Southwest Missouri region participated in completing a survey. Results indicated teachers in both groups negatively viewed the idea of special education students taking the same standardized assessments, with or without accommodations, as their non-disabled peers. In addition, a statistical relationship was found between the regular education teachers’ perceptions and special education students’ MAP scores in the area of communication arts (2013, 2014), and a statistical relationship was found between special education teachers’ perceptions and special education students’ MAP scores in the area of communication arts (2012) and math (2013). Finally, the data showed teachers in both groups negatively viewed the idea that special education students’ MAP scores should be used in teacher evaluations.</p>
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DuBois, Elizabeth Ann. "The Voices of Special Educators: How Do Special Educators Teach English Language Learners Who are Receiving Special Education Services?" Thesis, Portland State University, 2017. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10286409.
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<p> Disproportionality in special education has been examined from various perspectives over a 50-year period. English Language Learner (ELL) students have been included in the discussion among researchers in the past two decades as a disproportionate number of ELL students are referred to special education. Though the problem of disproportionality has been acknowledged, documented and discussed over a period of decades, there is a lack of research from the voices of special educators. The purpose of this study was to describe special education teachers’ experiences teaching students currently or previously enrolled in an English language learner program who are receiving special education services. This study explored teachers’ views of what supports, resources and strategies contribute to student success and their views of the eligibility determination and referral process . In order to address this gap in the literature, an exploratory descriptive qualitative study was conducted by interviewing special educators. The results indicate the participants lacked support in all areas examined including professional development, resources, instructional strategies and the referral and assessment process. This study indicates structural inequity, a systematic bias in the form of a patterned and differential distribution of resources, contributing to limited opportunities for students who are English language learners who are receiving special education. Implications of the study to address structural inequity include the use of culturally responsive pre-referral strategies and knowledge of the acculturation process when considering the needs of an ELL student who is struggling academically and incorporating culturally response teaching methods in both general and special education.</p><p>
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Schnittger, Edward J. "Perceptions of special education adminstrator effectiveness." Diss., Virginia Tech, 1991. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/39426.
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The study addressed three basic problems. First, the
effectiveness of incumbent special education administrators
in Virginia had not been assessed. Second, the
qualifications of incumbent special education administrators
in Virginia had not been determined. Third, requirements
for special education administrators in Virginia had not
been developed, despite the recommendation of Berquist, et
al., (1987) following their evaluation study of special
education programming across the state.
The study was designed to assess effectiveness by
gathering perceptions of the quality of the knowledge and
skills demonstrated by special education administrators.
The study was designed to gather information on special
education administrator's status in regard to two standard
qualifications for positions in educational agencies, i.e.,
endorsement(s) held and amount of position-specific
coursework taken. The study was designed to generate
recommendations regarding requirements for special education
administrators based upon the results of an analysis of
effectiveness (demonstrated knowledge or demonstrated skill)
by qualifications (endorsement and coursework [in
administration and supervision of special education]).<br>Ed. D.
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Henderson-Black, Keisha. "Special Education Compliance Manual for Administrators." Diss., The University of Arizona, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/196031.
Full textAbstract:
During the past 40 years, American schools have had to respond to many new pressures and challenges from federal legislation concerning students with disabilities. Chief among these are the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA, 2004) and the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB, 2001). Principals have training, experience, and expertise administering and supervising instruction in their schools. However, this training does not typically include comprehensive knowledge of special education and assurance that the procedures required for ensuring the needs of students with special needs are met and their rights are protected (Van Horn, Burello, & De Clue, 1992).Given the complexity of the roles and responsibilities of principals, it is not surprising that many feel poorly prepared as leaders of special education services in their buildings (Crockett, 2002). At this time school administrators do not have a clear cut "question-answer resource" to assist them in interpreting and complying with the rules and regulations for serving students with disabilities as mandated by federal and state educational agencies.The purpose of this dissertation was to develop a practical manual which could be used by administrators to meet the rules and regulations mandated by IDEIA (2004) and No Child Left Behind (2001). This manual includes compliance issues, guidelines and recommended practices to assist principals and staff in meeting all compliance standards.This manual has many implications. First, this manual identifies the current issues in special education and provides recommendations. Second, the manual will be a resource for principals to assist them in administering and monitoring special education practices to identify, assess and develop Individualized Education Programs, and meet parent and student rights, and due process procedures. Third, this manual will be of use to administrators in understanding the special education process and the necessary actions taken by schools to comply with the rules and regulations. Fourth, this manual may be of service to pre-service and in-service trainers who are preparing administrators for the nation's schools.
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McNamara, Karen. "Special education understandings of prospective teachers." Diss., The University of Arizona, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/279976.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of the present study was to explore the broad query of prospective teachers' understandings about special education. The study, which employed qualitative methods, involved two undergraduate prospective teachers as participants. Both participants were engaged in an initial field experience as part of their elementary teacher preparation program. The study was designed to gain a sense of the ways in which the prospective teachers describe special education. Additionally, particular disability categories and inclusion were considered as part of the study. The participants both anticipate having students with special needs in their respective future classrooms. Several intriguing findings and implications resulted from addressing the two research questions, which examined the special education understandings of prospective teachers. The study was intended to contribute to the knowledge base of special education understandings and extend the existing valuable body of work in the area of teacher beliefs.
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Ivey, Frances Winfrey. "A Study of Virginia Administrators with Responsibility for Division Special Education Services and Knowledge of Special Education School Law." Diss., Virginia Tech, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/29744.
Full textAbstract:
This study investigated the knowledge of special education directors or division designees in school divisions across the Commonwealth of Virginia. One-hundred-twenty-nine Virginia special education directors or division designees were sent an on-line assessment describing 22 hypothetical scenarios representing current legal issues in the area of special education law as prescribed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) and No Child Left Behind (NCLB). The instrument used in this study was adapted from the Power (2007) study with a revision of response choices to provide more definitive results. A demographic questionnaire was adapted to determine individual and school division characteristics pertinent to the study. A total of 87 division special education administrators responded, a 67% response rate. After initial analysis, 84 assessments were usable.
The statistical package JMP-Software for Univariate and Multivariate Statistics (2005) was used to tabulate the responses and to examine the relationships between demographic variables and respondentsâ knowledge of special education law. Descriptive statistics were applied to identify deficiencies in the respondentsâ knowledge base. Results of this study yielded a mean total score of 80.3% on the online assessment. Respondents scored below the mean in the areas of free and appropriate education, related services, student discipline, and liability for reimbursement to parents. There was no statistically significant relationship between knowledge of special education law and any of the following demographic characteristics: size of the school division, previous special education teacher experience, number of years as a special education director, highest degree attained, percent of time devoted to special education responsibilities, and attendance at special education law workshops. Respondents who belonged to professional organizations scored significantly higher on the assessment than those who did not. The assessment also compared methods of remaining current with special education law and the respondentsâ knowledge of the law. The following methods yielded a statistically significant relationship with knowledge of special education law: reading professional organization bulletins, attending professional development seminars, and using â otherâ means.
The results of this study will be used to recommend professional development on the interpretation and implementation of special education law at the school-division and college/university levels.<br>Ph. D.
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Librea-Carden, Mila Rosa Latina PHD. "Nature of Science in a Special Education Context: Conceptions and Sense-Making of Preservice Special Education Teachers." Kent State University / OhioLINK, 2018. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=kent1531142164652274.
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Kennedy, Benjamin Clayton. "Special education directors' perceptions on how no child left behind influenced special education services in North Mississippi /." Full text available from ProQuest UM Digital Dissertations, 2008. http://0-proquest.umi.com.umiss.lib.olemiss.edu/pqdweb?index=0&did=1798967061&SrchMode=1&sid=2&Fmt=2&VInst=PROD&VType=PQD&RQT=309&VName=PQD&TS=1258143196&clientId=22256.
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Sheldrake, Danielle Angelina. "A Comparative Study of Administrator and Special Education Teacher Perceptions of Special Education Teacher Attrition and Retention." PDXScholar, 2013. https://pdxscholar.library.pdx.edu/open_access_etds/1499.
Full textAbstract:
This mixed methods study identifies perceived causes of and solutions to the attrition of special education teachers. Researchers have documented that special education teaching positions encounter higher attrition rates than their general education peers (Katsiyannis, Zhang, & Conroy in Olivarez & Arnold, 2006; Mitchell & Arnold, 2004; Otto & Arnold, 2005; Stempien & Loeb, 2002). More than 66 administrators and 200 special education teachers/Teachers on Special Assignment (TOSAs) employed in the Portland, Oregon metro area (Washington, Clackamas, and Multnomah counties) completed a survey on special education teacher attrition and retention and identified what they believed are the causes of high special education teacher attrition rates and what interventions would increase rates of special education teacher retention. The results of the surveys from the two sub-groups were compared and contrasted and it was determined administrators and special education teachers share similar perceptions of the causes of high special education teacher attrition rates and similar perceptions of interventions to increase retention rates. The results were also analyzed to determine if administrators and special education teachers and TOSAs identify the same causes of special education teacher attrition and interventions to increase retention rates.
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Leavitt, Jane Elizabeth Laymon Ronald L. Franklin David L. "Public school financial and educational liability for special education students' placements and provision of related services in non-public schools." Normal, Ill. Illinois State University, 1992. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/ilstu/fullcit?p9234465.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (Ph. D.)--Illinois State University, 1992.<br>Title from title page screen, viewed January 27, 2006. Dissertation Committee: Ronald L. Laymon, David L. Franklin (co-chairs), Robert Arnold, Jack C. Eisele, Jack E. Matheney. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 213-224) and abstract. Also available in print.
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Hamilton, Leah W. "Project study: An action plan for implementing Response to Intervention." ScholarWorks, 2010. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/834.
Full textAbstract:
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 allows schools to utilize response to intervention (RtI) as early intervention to prevent at-risk students from becoming labeled as learning disabled. Using action research methodology and school change theory, the purpose of this project study was to determine the RtI implementation needs of a rural elementary school (LE). The guiding research question was to identify the components of an RtI framework currently being utilized during the pre-referral process at LE. This study employed a qualitative method triangulation design to analyze data from key stakeholders including questionnaires; individual interviews from six reading teachers, one reading interventionist, and one special education teacher; and campus documents analysis. Analysis included data transformation of frequency statistics from surveys and coded data from open-ended questionnaire responses, individual interviews, and document analysis. These data were triangulated revealing the current level of practice in collaboration, data-based decision making, parent involvement, professional development, and implementation monitoring. Findings indicated utilization of several RtI components inconsistently across grade levels and subjects. As a result, an RtI action plan was developed including a description of RtI background, identification of current levels of practice, implementation steps including timetable, and an RtI glossary. This resource has the potential to aid other districts by providing an implementation plan that could be adapted to their campus needs. This study promotes positive social change by identifying an effective implementation process for a unified service delivery model at LE resulting in improving the education of all students.
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Mohr, John Darrell. "Technology-mediated distance education used to prepare special education personnel." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2004. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc4544/.
Full textAbstract:
This study examined how technology-mediated distance education is used in special education courses in teacher preparation programs. The data are based on a 30-item survey administered to members of the Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children, who identified themselves as serving in an instructional capacity within institutions of higher education. Technology-mediated instruction was characterized in terms course delivery methods and program attributes. An analysis of instructional design processes revealed that most instructors are largely autonomous and do not rely on a team-based approach. Most make use of course-design and management software. Training is linked to course strategy and evaluation, while experience is associated with implementation. Respondents emphasized communication and student feedback. While both users and non-users of distance education technology foresaw the increased use for course delivery in the future, a notable percentage (13%) of current users indicated a desire to discontinue use.
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Tewalt, Brandon J. "Special education teachers' personal time and money /." connect to online version, 2009. http://minds.wisconsin.edu/handle/1793/37974.
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Gates, Justin J. "A Legislative and Judicial Analysis of Individualized Education Program Related Services." Kent State University / OhioLINK, 2014. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=kent1414597212.
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White, Donna. "Regular education and special education toward improving high school inclusion /." [Denver, Colo.] : Regis University, 2007. http://165.236.235.140/lib/DWhite2007.pdf.
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Elder, Hinshaw Rebecca. "Universal Design for Learning procedures in special education teacher education." [Bloomington, Ind.] : Indiana University, 2008. http://gateway.proquest.com/openurl?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:dissertation&res_dat=xri:pqdiss&rft_dat=xri:pqdiss:3319893.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (Ph.D.)--Indiana University, School of Education, 2008.<br>Title from home page (viewed on May 11, 2009). Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 69-08, Section: A, page: 3106. Adviser: Gretchen Butera.
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Tanner, Brandi L. "Factors influencing special educators' perceptives regarding the reintegration of special education students." [Tampa, Fla] : University of South Florida, 2006. http://purl.fcla.edu/usf/dc/et/SFE0001926.
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Taylor, Jack B. "The relationship of type of placement and program duration to the academic self-esteem of learning-handicapped elementary students." Scholarly Commons, 1990. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/3510.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of the study was to investigate which of two placement types had a more significant impact upon learning disabled students' feelings of self-esteem: full-time segregated placement or a partial-day integrated placement. Program duration was examined as a factor which has been demonstrated to influence self-esteem. The probability that gains in reading performance positively impact global and academic self-esteem was also investigated. A sample size of 117 students, 90 in integrated placement groups, and 27 in segregated groups were randomly selected from a group of 202 elementary level students identified as being learning disabled. Students selected were assigned to experimental groups based upon the instructional setting in which their needs were being addressed, and when their duration of placement had been 1, 2, or 3 years. All students were administered the Culture-Free Self-Esteem Inventory and mean scores for both academic and global self-esteem were computed. These scores were then analyzed in a 3 x 2 x 2 repeated measures analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) for significant differences, after adjustments were made for initial differences between placement groups on reading scores obtained from the Wide Range Achievement Test at the time of placement. The alpha level was set at p (is less than) .10 for all analyses. Four hypotheses relating to the effects that program placement and duration have upon the academic and global self-esteem scores of learning disabled students were tested. Two additional hypotheses examined the relationship between gains in reading performance, over a 1, 2, or 3 year duration of placement, and scores on the global and academic self-esteem measures. No significant differences were obtained. When adjusted for initial differences in reading achievement, no measurable differences in the academic self-esteem of these students were noted. Placement in neither an integrated nor segregated setting can be said to be more enhancing to the academic self-esteem of students over placement in the other. Although a tendency in the positive direction was noted, these results also suggest that neither placement type, nor duration, exhibit a significant impact on the global self-esteem of identified students. Also positive, but not significant, are the relationships between students' feelings of self-esteem and their academic achievement. Unlike earlier work done with the mildly retarded, these results do not substantiate findings suggesting that placement setting alone is important to students' self-esteem. This study has found that placement in either a segregated or integrated setting does not, in and of itself, enhance the academic self-esteem of learning disabled students.
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Nyarambi, Arnold, and L. Zagumny. "Triangulation of Document Analysis, Interviews, and Key Consultations in Investigating Post-Genocide Rwandan Special Education: A Methodological Analysis." Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University, 2010. https://dc.etsu.edu/etsu-works/8255.
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