Special Educators' Perceptions of Professional Learning Opportunities: A Call for Greater Access, Relevance, and Collaboration

• In Event: 68.060 - Roundtable Session 29
  In Roundtable Session: 68.060-15 - Diverse Perspectives on Teachers and Teaching

Abstract

Educators face unique challenges that require a specialized skill set in order to achieve the goal of improved educational access and outcomes for students, especially those with disabilities. Using a grounded theory approach, this study analyzed qualitative semi-structured interviews with secondary special education teachers working in a large urban district. The study probed teachers’ perceptions of the availability and relevance of available professional development opportunities. Recognizing teachers’ perceptions can inform the decision making of researchers, practitioners, and teacher educators determining how best to respond to the unique needs of special educators. The study's findings highlighted the need for greater access to professional development, the importance of providing relevant training, and the importance of facilitating collaboration within and across silos.

Authors

• Lindsey Chapman, University of Miami

• Wendy Cavendish, University of Miami

• Chelsea Tey Morris, University of Miami

• Kristin Watson Kibler, University of Miami

• Lydia L Ocasio-Stoutenburg, University of Miami