Special Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: Perspectives on COVID-19 and Special and Inclusive Education (Table 25)

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted how special education professionals supported students with autism and other disabilities. This mixed methods study asked 106 special educators how they adapted instruction to comply with changing modalities and social distancing rules. Through survey questions and qualitative responses, participants reported enormous challenges. They reached students by: 1) making individualized packets of materials that they delivered to student’s homes, 2) renewing collaborations with parents who helped deliver instruction, reinforcement, and monitored progress, and 3) modifying IEPs by adding individualized contingency learning plans and some eliminated social goals due to social distancing requirements. Participants were surprised that a subset of students preferred virtual instruction, although it remains unclear if progress was made on IEP goals.

Authors

• Sarah Hurwitz, Indiana University

• Blaine Garman-McClaine, Indiana University

• Kane Carlock, Indiana University