Action Research in Special Education ─ An Inquiry Approach for Effective Teaching and Learning

"Special education invites teachers to be creative problem-solvers in working at the intersection of the general education curriculum and the child's specific strengths and needs. This volume invites teachers to use an action research approach to embark systematically on this work. This is exactly what we should be doing. By reading specific inquiry projects, teachers are invited to not only learn from these preservice teachers but also embark on their own inquiries."---Celia Oyler, Teachers College, Columbia University

This is the first book about action research devoted to the complex issues faced by children with special needs and their teachers. The authors begin by providing the historical and philosophical underpinnings of action research and then present a framework for conducting action research in special education. In addition, they feature four examples of actual teacher-researcher studies, as well as a "how-to" chapter that outlines the basic principles needed for conducting action research. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in using action research to enhance student achievement and to address issues of social justice faced by children with special needs

Susan M. Bruce is an associate professor at the Lynch School of Education at Boston College, with a focus on special education. Gerald J. Pine (deceased) was a professor emeritus at the Lynch School of Education, Boston College