ERIC Number: EJ1172272
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018-Jan
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1307-9298
EISSN: N/A
Utilizing Technology for Professional Learning in the Dissemination of Evidence-Based Practices to Paraprofessionals Working in Public Education
Wright, Patricia I.; Prescott, Rosalind
International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education, v10 n3 p331-337 Jan 2018
Although paraprofessionals are pivotal for the educational success of learners with autism, limited professional learning opportunities are provided resulting in inadequate application of evidence-based practices in their work. In this participatory action research study, thirty-six paraprofessionals participated in professional learning utilizing workshops and a commercially available professional learning platform, Rethink. The study included didactic training, video-based modeling and applied practice activities in the classroom. Paraprofessionals improved their knowledge and self-efficacy in the application of evidence-based practices. Supporting classroom teacher's social validity also reported improved paraprofessional performance. These findings suggest a possible avenue for supporting paraprofessional professional learning via integrating web-based technology to access video models paired with traditional professional learning methods to improve the application of evidence-based practices in the classroom environment.
Descriptors: Technology Uses in Education, Evidence Based Practice, Public Education, Action Research, Workshops, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Autism, Educational Technology, Special Education, Faculty Development, Video Technology, Modeling (Psychology), Teaching Methods, Paraprofessional School Personnel, Participatory Research, Pretests Posttests
International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education. T&K Akademic Rosendalsvein 45, Oslo 1166, Norway. e-mail: iejee@iejee.com; Web site: https://www.iejee.com/index.php/IEJEE/index
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A