Systematic prompting is a versatile evidence-based practice that can improve a range of outcomes for students with disabilities, but many teachers and paraeducators are not familiar with systematic prompting or may struggle with implementation. In this systematic review, the authors identified 28 articles that evaluated training practices for…

The present study evaluated the use of computerized equivalence-based instruction (EBI) to teach classes representing schedules of reinforcement to staff members. Four, 5-member classes representing fixed ratio, fixed interval, variable ratio, and variable interval schedules of reinforcement were taught. The participants were 16 staff members…

This applied dissertation was designed to improve educational professionals and paraprofessionals' knowledge and skills on functional behavior assessment procedures as they relate to and assist with classroom management. Educators and school personnel are not prepared to manage challenging behaviors in their classrooms. Functional behavior…

Background: Autistic youth primarily receive services in public schools from educators who persistently report variable training and use of evidenced-based practices (EBPs). Educational achievement of individualized goals may be hindered by inconsistent implementation of EBPs. Objective: To better understand EBP training practices, this study…

Exploring what practices early childhood special education (ECSE) teachers have been exposed to and use may highlight the need for improved dissemination and implementation supports. In this survey study, 312 U.S. ECSE teachers reported exposure (familiarity, training) and use of evidence-based practices (EBPs) and low-value practices (LVPs) for…

The purpose of this study was to investigate Access Arrangements (AA) which allow students with specific learning difficulties (SpLDs), disabilities or medical needs to access assessments by making "reasonable" adjustments, as established by the Equality Act 2010. A review of the literature revealed some problematic issues relating to…

There is a research-to-practice gap in the identification and use of evidence-based practices in special education. One way to better understand the persistent gap between research and practice and to inform professional development efforts is through gaining an understanding of teacher and paraprofessional perceptions. We conducted a survey study…

According to data from U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics in 2018, it is estimated that there are 1,308,100 paraeducators employed in public schools in the United States. Despite the prevalence of paraeducators, these employees receive limited opportunity for training. In addition, there is little guidance from the Department of Education or…

A training package for the Collaborative Model for Promoting Competence and Success (COMPASS), a multilevel consultation and coaching intervention for improved educational outcomes of students with autism, was developed and evaluated. Using a Hybrid Type 3 design with emphasis on implementation and a multidimensional approach to evaluating…

Paraprofessionals are often hired to conduct one-on-one or small group support to students with disabilities within the K-12 school system. Existing literature illustrates a limited expectation that paraprofessionals in school districts receive training surrounding their job requirements. With the rise of students being identified for special…

The Federal government mandates the use of evidence-based practice for interventions with students. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of these evidence-based practices, but despite this, many school systems do not implement ABA as described in the literature, which leads to loss of fidelity and integrity with implementation, and often results…

This study addressed the problem that teachers have had minimal or no training in how to implement evidence-based practices when educating students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); consequently, teachers struggle with which intervention to implement and when to implement the intervention. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to…

Many teachers are sporadic in using evidence-based practice (EBP) concerning students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Numerous reasons have been posited for this. However, no single study has worked to understand the relative importance of identified criteria in the EBP decision-making processes of teachers. Through the development of a new…

This qualitative study included eight special education teachers all of whom work in self-contained classroom environments for student with autism. The study was conducted in two public elementary schools within one suburban school district. During data analysis five major themes identified as being important in gaining perspective into the…

Postsecondary students with disabilities underutilize career services (CS) and report systemic barriers when trying to do so. Disability resource (DR) professionals rarely have the experience to advise students on employment issues such as internship opportunities, disclosure during interviews, and how to obtain workplace accommodations. Research…