Description
Book SynopsisAction research is the process of (a) identifying a problem in the classroom, (b) collecting data to better understand the problem, (c) researching evidence-based interventions for addressing the problem, (d) selecting and implementing an intervention, (e) collecting data to determine the effectiveness of the intervention, and (f) making changes to the intervention based on that data. In the special education classroom, action research is an integral part of the IEP process and should be used in IEP planning, implementation, and evaluation. The Teacher’s Guide to Action Research for Special Education in PK-12 Classrooms is intended for use as a textbook in special education action research courses, but includes practical applications and easy-to-understand verbiage for all readers, as well as reproducible data collection forms. The expected readership of the book are current and future preschool through twelfth grade special education teachers. After reading this book, pre-service and in-service teachers will be better prepared for systematically using data to support decision making in their classrooms. Because of the reproducible forms and explicit instructions on the use of action research, readers will be able to immediately begin conducting action research in their own classrooms after reading this book.
Trade ReviewFinding a research methods text that is practical, non-technical, and utilizes a conversational writing style is often challenging. However, Dr. Lohmann has successfully achieved this in The Teacher’sGuide to Action Research for Special Educators. This book is a must-have for any special educator who is focused on providing the most effective evidence-based intervention strategies unique to the needs of their individual learners. This book outlines action research as the most appropriate strategy to achieve these outcomes, and Dr. Lohmann presents action research in an extremely user-friendly style.
-- Craig A. Mertler, Adrian Dominican School of Education
A practical guide for any novice or experienced action researcher, The Teacher's Guide to Action Research for Special Education in PK-12 Classrooms is effectively organized to guide the researcher through the process of Action Research in Special Education. This text is well supported with authentic case studies, review questions for reflection and discussion, and applicable practices for the researcher.
-- Janine Chitty, professor of secondary English education and graduate studies, University of Arkansas at Fort Smith
Table of ContentsList of Figures
Acknowledgments
Chapter 1: What is Special Education Action Research?
Student Learning Objectives
What is Research?
Action Research in Daily Life
The Action Research Process
Action Research in the IEP Process
Traditional Research vs. Action Research
Quantitative Research, Qualitative Research, & Mixed Methods Research
Why Should I Do Action Research?
Conclusion
Review Questions and Exercises
Chapter 2: Identifying Classroom Learning Challenges and Collecting Baseline Data
Student Learning Objectives
Data-Driven Decision Making
Defining Learning or Behavior Challenge
Collecting Baseline Data
Assessment Data
Work Samples
Observations
Surveys/Questionnaires
Checklists
Rating Scales
Interviews
The Challenge with Only Relying on Formal Assessments
Data Literacy
Additional Data Collection Considerations
Forming a Problem Statement
Conclusion
Review Questions and Exercises
Chapter 3: Identifying Potential Evidence-Based Interventions
Student Learning Objectives
Evidence-Based Practices
Locating EBPs
Finding EBPs Without Access to a University Database
Determining the Appropriateness of an EBP for your Student
Designing an Intervention Plan
Conclusion
Review Questions and Exercises
Chapter 4: Implementing an Avidence-Based Intervention
Student Learning Objectives
Planning for the Intervention
IRB Applications & Approval
Implementing the Intervention
Implementation Fidelity
Conclusion
Review Questions and Exercises
Chapter 5: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Your Intervention
Student Learning Objectives
Formative Evaluation
Analyzing the Formative Data
Determining Effectiveness of Intervention
Conclusion
Review Questions and Exercises
Chapter 6: Sharing Your Research
Student Learning Objectives
Sharing Data with Colleagues
Rationale for Sharing Data with Education Community
Sharing your Research with the Education Community Through Presentations
Sharing your Research with the Education Community Through an Article
Conclusion
Review Questions and Exercises
Chapter 7: Conclusion
Student Learning Objectives
Action Research and the IEP
Moving Forward
Review Questions and Exercises
Appendix A: Case Studies: Sample Action Research Projects
Case Study: Pierre
Case Study: Jack
Case Study: Jose
Appendix B: Case Studies for Student Practice
Case Study 1: Communication Delay in Preschool
Case Study 2: Self-Injury Behavior in 6th Grade
Case Study 3: HyperActivity in 1st Grade
Case Study 4: Paraprofessional Training
References
Index
About the Author
