The Essentials of Special Education Research

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Researchers in special education have been developing a knowledge base of evidence-based practices that improve the outcomes of students with disabilities. Unfortunately, filtering that knowledge into classrooms implemented by special education teachers has been a challenge. In The Essentials of Special Education Research, Andrew M. Markelz and Benjamin S. Riden directly address the persistent research-to-practice gap by systematically presenting the essential components of research that every special education teacher must know.
The first section investigates the foundations of research and why special education teachers should regularly read research articles. It also examines the basic structure of research articles to demystify jargon and provide teachers confidence when reading scientific literature. The second section explores various research methodologies that consumers of research must know. Methodologies such as literature reviews, single-case design, quantitative, qualitative, and others are unpacked so that special education teachers know the critical components of these methodologies, along with their limitations, to become critical consumers of research. The third section focuses on putting this knowledge into practice. Using practical scenarios, the authors demonstrate how a special education teacher can combat common classroom problems by locating and reading relevant research to gain information and implement best practices based on scientific evidence. This step-by-step guide combines the knowledge and skills outlined in this book to truly become a scientific practitioner.

Author Bio

Andrew M. Markelz, PhD, is associate professor of special education at Ball State University. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in special education law, administrative and organizational theory, and family collaboration. Dr. Markelz is committed to expediting the novice-to-expert teaching curve by preparing special educators to implement proactive classroom-management strategies and develop meaningful and legally defensible individualized education programs.

Benjamin S. Riden, PhD, BCBA-D,is associate professor of special education at James Madison University. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in the special education and behavior specialist programs. Dr. Ridens research interests include using the principles of applied behavior analysis to support students with challenging behavior, preparing teachers to effectively manage their classrooms, and single-case research design.