ERIC Number: ED649856
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 160
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3575-6867-0
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Identifying the Impact of Online Toolkit Training on Paraprofessionals in Two Rural States
Kyle Laughlin
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, University of South Dakota
The need for more paraprofessionals is growing due to the increasing number of students who are qualifying for specialized educational support. In addition, paraprofessionals have been called upon to provide support in the general education setting in schools. This research study was designed to determine the impact of online paraprofessional training on paraprofessionals' knowledge and perceived knowledge around supporting students with disabilities. The paraprofessional toolkit was first developed by using survey data and feedback from districts and building administrators, special education and general education teachers, and paraprofessionals. This study helped identify what numerous content areas that resulted in paraprofessionals knowledge and perceived knowledge increasing, which will lead to improved training for paraprofessionals. Findings showed that participants had significant growth in knowledge and perceived knowledge on each tool within the paraprofessional toolkit. Looking at the mean scores, the largest growth of knowledge occurred with Tool 7: Monitoring and Managing behaviors, while the lowest growth was Tool 2: Roles and Responsibilities. Furthermore, this study found that regardless of years' experience, grade level, location, and size of district the participants had significant knowledge and perceived knowledge growth after completing the training. This study was important because of the implications around effective training for paraprofessionals and the delivery of this training, which will hopefully impact paraprofessionals abilities in supporting the learning needs of all students, including students with disabilities. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Electronic Learning, Paraprofessional School Personnel, Job Training, Students with Disabilities, Special Education, Knowledge Level, Teaching Methods, Instructional Effectiveness
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A

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