Examining the Effectiveness of a Special Education Residency Program in Improving the Quantity and Quality of Teachers in Urban Schools

• In Event: 54.081 - Poster Session 11
  In Poster Session: 54.081-1 - Division K Section 7

Abstract

The purpose of this research study was to examine the effectiveness of a special education residency program in providing highly qualified teachers in urban schools. Funded by a 5-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the program was designed to address the critical shortage of high quality teachers in special education, particularly in high-poverty schools. Findings show strong support for residency programs in improving the quantity and quality of teachers in urban schools. However, they suggest that significant investment is needed to support residents, promote school/university coordination, and facilitate professional development activities. With resources, residency programs show great promise in addressing the inequities in our communities and the persistent shortages of fully credentialed teachers in special education.

Authors

• Nancy D. Burstein, California State University - Northridge

• Sue Sears, California State University - Northridge

• Anne Wilcoxen, California State University - Northridge