A Survey of the Experiences of Paraprofessionals with Roles, Training, and Communication When Working with Students with Autism

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Title: A Survey of the Experiences of Paraprofessionals with Roles, Training, and Communication When Working with Students with Autism
Language: English
Authors: Morin, Kristi L., Nowell, Sallie, Steinbrenner, Jessica, Sam, Ann, Waters, Victoria (ORCID 0000-0002-0137-1562), Odom, Samuel L.
Source: Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities. Jun 2022 37(2):96-107.
Availability: SAGE Publications and Hammill Institute on Disabilities. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://sagepub.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 12
Publication Date: 2022
Sponsoring Agency: Institute of Education Sciences (ED)
Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) (ED/OSERS)
Contract Number: R324A170028
R324B160038
H325E170001
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Students with Disabilities, Paraprofessional School Personnel, Public Schools, Role, Responsibility, Knowledge Level, Barriers, Professional Development, Interpersonal Communication
Geographic Terms: United States, Guam
DOI: 10.1177/10883576211066897
ISSN: 1088-3576
1538-4829
Abstract: Paraprofessionals are critical members of instructional teams for students with autism; however, little is known about their job preparation and professional development needs. This study addressed the gap in the literature by surveying 325 paraprofessionals in public school settings in the United States and Guam who reported working with students with autism. Data were gathered on paraprofessionals' (a) roles and responsibilities, (b) applied knowledge from different types of professional development, (c) perceived barriers to professional development, and (d) types and timing of communication with their supervising teachers. The results of this study have direct implications for individuals interested in developing a model of professional development that will meet the unique needs of paraprofessionals who work with students with autism.
Abstractor: As Provided
IES Funded: Yes
Entry Date: 2022
Accession Number: EJ1339976
Database: ERIC
Full text is not displayed to guests.
Description
Abstract:Paraprofessionals are critical members of instructional teams for students with autism; however, little is known about their job preparation and professional development needs. This study addressed the gap in the literature by surveying 325 paraprofessionals in public school settings in the United States and Guam who reported working with students with autism. Data were gathered on paraprofessionals' (a) roles and responsibilities, (b) applied knowledge from different types of professional development, (c) perceived barriers to professional development, and (d) types and timing of communication with their supervising teachers. The results of this study have direct implications for individuals interested in developing a model of professional development that will meet the unique needs of paraprofessionals who work with students with autism.
ISSN:1088-3576
1538-4829
DOI:10.1177/10883576211066897