10 Essential Special Educational Needs Research Resources

Research SEN Teachers Should be Using.

During an online Special Education discussion I asked: What Research/Journals should those interested in SEND be reading? Here are the top 6 answers for recommended SEND research into special education. Some of these are free to access, others require a subscription.

Since this post was originally written the EEF have emerged as a great hub for distilling research into actionable initiatives. However, I do not believe they are yet a great source of research for SEN teacher’s niche needs. Please add your suggestions to the comments box below.

1. Andy Bloor recommended JORSEN – The Journal of Research in Special Educational Needs which now has a range of short podcasts with the authors of the articles which can be really helpful and much more accessible.  #SpEdSC

2. ICE Research suggested JDisSoc – The Journal of Disability & Society. This has a lot of free to access articles. I immediately found one I needed for an online safety training.

3. Joanna Grace recommended @PMLDLink – A journal for everyone supporting people with profound and multiple learning disabilities. There is a great free sample copy available.

4. I like to keep an eye on The Policy Research Forum – This University of Exeter forum has a range of policy papers to download. You can also join and contribute to the discussion.

5. The GOV.UK page on Special Educational Needs and disability (SEND) has a range of policy papers and statistics available for free.

5 Resources for Learning more about Neurodiversity.

1. Learning About Neurodiversity at School (LEANS): LEANS is a free program designed for mainstream primary schools to introduce pupils aged 8-11 years to the concept of neurodiversity and how it impacts their experiences at school. The LEANS resource pack provides valuable information and resources for teachers and students.
2. Key Concepts for Communicating Neurodiversity in Schools: This research emphasizes that teaching neurodiversity is not just about definitions or facts. It involves understanding related concepts such as needs, equity, and validity to motivate positive changes in attitudes and actions.
3. Neurodiversity-Affirming Practices: Explore the nuances of language and communication through the lens of neurodiversity, with a focus on the autistic community. Learn about the importance of using identity-first language to honour individual communication styles.
4. Supporting Neurodiversity in Education: This guide from University College London (UCL) provides principles for creating flexible learning environments that cater to the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. It challenges assumptions about linear learning and encourages inclusive practices.
5. Autism Education Trust (AET): AET offers evidence-based resources and training for educators working with autistic pupils. Their materials emphasize understanding neurodiversity and promoting positive outcomes for autistic students.

References

Cullen, M.A., Lindsay, G., Hastings, R., Denne, L. and Stanford, C. (2020) Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND): Review of the evidence commissioned by the EEF to inform the Special Educational Needs in Mainstream Schools guidance report. (Centre for Educational Development, Appraisal and Research (CEDAR), University of Warwick) Education Endowment Foundation.

Douglas, G.,, McLinden, M., Robertson, C., Travers, J. and Smith, E. (2016) Including Pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disability in National Assessment: Comparison of Three Country Case Studies
through an Inclusive Assessment Framework. International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, 63, 1, 98–121, http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/1034912X.2015.1111306

Sharples, J., Webster, R. and Blatchford, P (2018) Making Best Use Of Teaching Assistants. Guidance Report. EEF