Discussion: Using a Mixed-Method Design

For this Discussion, you analyze a special education research question and apply a mixed-methods approach to answer that question.

To prepare:

· Review the module Learning Resources, paying particular attention to the research questions addressed by the studies.

· Identify a special education research question, preferably one that has emerged from your work setting or research area of interest, which might be addressed through a mixed-methods design.

An explanation of the special education research question you selected. Then, explain how your question might be addressed appropriately by a mixed-methods design.

Support your response with specific reference to the Learning Resources, outside resources, as well as personal experience.

Learning Resources

Note: To access this module’s required library resources, please click on the link to the Course Readings List, found in the Course Materials section of your Syllabus.

Required Readings

Consult the following readings for work on your course project assignment during this module:

O’Neill, R. E., McDonnell, J. J., Billingsley, F. F., & Jenson, W. R. (2011). Single case research designs in educational and community settings. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

• Chapter 10, “Alternating Treatment Designs”      (pp. 151–170)
  
  Focus on the characteristics of alternating treatment designs. Pay      particular attention to design variations. Note the adapted alternating      design and specific examples.

Mixed-Methods

Note: The resources were selected for the quality of the information and examples that they contain and not the date of publication.

Bishop, A. G., Brownell, M. T., Klingner, J. K., Leko, M. M., & Galman, S. A. C. (2010). Differences in beginning special education teachers: The influence of personal attributes, preparation, and school environment on classroom reading practices. Learning Disability Quarterly, 33(2), 75–92.

Focus on this approach to mixed-methods design. Recognize the factors that are studied. Consider how teachers were classified.

Igo, L. B., Bruning, R. A., & Riccomini, P. J. (2009). Should middle school students with learning problems copy and paste notes from the internet? Mixed-methods evidence of study barriers. Research in Middle Level Education Online, 33(2), 1–10.

Focus on the experimental phase of this mixed-methods study. Pay particular attention to the explanatory theme. Study the multiple measures and approaches.

Koury, K., Hollingsead, C., Fitzgerald, G., Miller, K., Mitchem, K., Tsai, H-H., & Zha, S. (2009). Case-based instruction in different delivery contexts: The impact of time in cases. Journal of Interactive Learning Research, 20(4), 445–467.

Focus on the mixed-methods naturalistic research design. Review the process for reaching across multiple delivery contexts. Reflect on the selection of participants.

Patton, D. C. (2011). Evaluating the culturally relevant and responsive education professional development program at the elementary school level in the Los Angeles Unified School District. Learning Disabilities: A Contemporary Journal, 9(1), 71–107.

Focus on the measurement of this professional development program. Note the design of the program evaluation. Pay particular attention to assessing the goals.

Rugg, N., & Donne, V. (2011). Parent and teacher perceptions of transitioning students from a listening and spoken language school to the general education setting. The Volta Review, 111(3), 325–351.

Focus on the methods for examining the perceptions of parents and teachers. Study the mixed-methods design. Read about the criterion-based sample.

Shaunessy, E., & McHatton, P. A. (2009). Urban students’ perceptions of teachers: Views of students in general, special, and honors education. The Urban Review, 41(5), 486–503.

Focus on the assessment of students’ perceptions. Recognize the mixed-methods design. Consider the use of quantitative and qualitative approaches.