Professional Learning for Teacher Trainers That Supports Academic Learning for Students With Extensive Support Needs

• In Event: Inclusion and Achievements for Students With Complex Support Needs

Abstract

This paper describes a professional learning program that supports trainers as they design and deliver teacher professional development aimed at improving academic instruction for students with extensive support needs. The Special Educator Technology-Based Training of Trainers (SETTT) for Success project focuses on trainers as they implement quality professional development and as they improve their own teacher training practice. As trainers design and implement professional development in SETTT, they are guided using a professional development cycle, project-created learning modules, curated online resources, coaching, and a virtual community of practice. Results from the initial pilot indicate that trainers successfully used SETTT components and gained knowledge that assisted in their implementation of academic-focused professional development for teachers of students with extensive support needs.

Authors

• Sarah Koebley, University of Kansas

• Meagan Karvonen, University of Kansas

• Gail C. Tiemann, University of Kansas

• Jennifer L. Kobrin, University of Kansas

• Lindsay Ruhter, University of Kansas