Promoting Ecological Perspectives: A Study in Reducing Overrepresentation of Minority Students in Special Education

• In Event: Special Education and Cultural Diversity

Abstract

Students from diverse backgrounds continue to be placed in special education programs at disproportionately high rates. Reform initiatives have recently focused on prereferral interventions; however, deficit views and a narrow focus on academic skill development hinder the efficacy of these strategies. This study was designed to identify promising organizational and instructional practices in order to build a framework and process for addressing disproportionality issues. Multiple data sources were used to study 102 schools. Surveys, focus groups and interviews were used to analyze schools with matching demographics but differing disproportionality rates. An ecological, framework and protocol to guide researchers and practitioners in the analysis of the complex interactions impacting overreferral and prereferral practice were developed.

Authors

• Patricia Ann Hoffman, Minnesota State University - Mankato

• Carrie Chapman, Minnesota State University - Mankato

• Anne P. Dahlman, Minnesota State University

• Daria Paul Dona, Minnesota State University - Mankato