ERIC Number: EJ1315235
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021
Pages: 20
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2325-7466
EISSN: N/A
Applying Empathy Curriculum to Enhance the Role of the Paraprofessional for Students with Multiple Disabilities
Russel, Christopher; Genao, Soribel
Journal of the American Academy of Special Education Professionals, p143-162 Fall 2021
The primary aim of this paper is to address how empathy curriculum can be applied to training needs of paraprofessionals working with students who have multiple disabilities. A thorough review of the literature on the role of the paraprofessional and implications for training and supervision is provided. This is juxtaposed with a review of the literature on empathy training/curriculum, and a discussion on the potential for applying empathy curriculum to existing needs for paraprofessional training. Results of a survey of 32 paraprofessionals working with students with multiple disabilities across New York State are presented. The survey emphasizes paraprofessionals' experience with training relevant to components of empathy, and self-reported perceptions of effectiveness in developing positive relationships and supporting holistic educational programs for students with multiple disabilities. The review and synthesis of literature from these two fields, and the survey results, suggest that empathy curriculum is a relevant area of training need to paraprofessionals, and further research is warranted on the topic.
Descriptors: Empathy, Curriculum Implementation, Paraprofessional School Personnel, Role, Students with Disabilities, Multiple Disabilities, Educational Needs, Inservice Education, Supervision, Training, Educational Legislation, Equal Education, Federal Legislation
American Academy of Special Education Professionals. 3642 East Sunnydale Drive, Chandler Heights, AZ 85142. Tel: 800-754-4421; Fax: 800-424-0371; e-mail: editor@aasep.org; Web site: http://www.aasep.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: New York
Identifiers - Laws, Policies, & Programs: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A