Disparities in Distance Learning Support for Special Education Students During a Global Pandemic

• In Event: Inequities of Distance Learning Pre- and Post-COVID

Abstract

To document the experiences of parents providing academic support for children in special education now engaged in distance learning, an anonymous online survey was utilized to investigate (1) how parents and schools are currently providing support and instruction, (2) what impact distance learning has had on students who require accommodations to access curriculum, and (3) parents’ need of assistance to navigate pedagogy and procedures required by their child’s IEP. Results showed that in this context of distance learning, some parents reported their students were thriving at home, however, more faced unfathomable challenges, including anxiety, limited access to learning, and thus experienced behavior and academic regression. Results can inform district planning to provide ongoing distance learning for students in special education.

Authors

• Isabella C. Brown, University of California - Berkeley

• Gesean G Lewis Woods, University of California - Berkeley

• Michelle V. Porche, University of California - San Francisco