Research Plan
The introduction of the Next Generation Science Standards by many states raised expectations for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities. Next Generation Science Standards includes Science and Engineering Practices, Disciplinary Core Ideas, and Cross-Cutting Concepts. Students with significant cognitive disabilities are taught and assessed in extended standards that incorporate these three dimensions.
We believe that students with significant cognitive disabilities can learn science and should receive high-quality instruction in academic content aligned to grade-level expectations. However, there was a gap between next-generation science instruction and how special education teachers were trained to teach science. In addition, very few resources were available for teachers to prepare for science instruction of students with significant cognitive disabilities. The 5E-SESE system fills these gaps.
The 5E-SESE system integrates a well-established science teaching model and Universal Design for Learning to make the science content accessible to all students.
- Incorporates three existing, highly successful learning approaches into the 5E-SESE model
- Next Generation Science Standards
- 5E model of instruction for inquiry-based learning
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles for accessibility in learning approaches
- Includes self-directed modules and virtual coaching for teachers who teach science to students with significant cognitive disabilities
- Offers coaching support for teachers in developing and implementing lesson plans based on extended Next Generation Science Standards for students with significant cognitive disabilities
As we completed the four phases of the grant-funded development of the 5E-SESE system, we documented all findings and shared outcomes that impacted teacher learning. We shared the products from the 5E-SESE system online and at national conferences for educators and researchers. Explore the following publications and presentations from the 5E-SESE project.
5E-SESE improves science education for students with significant cognitive disabilities by enhancing teacher confidence and fostering a belief in students’ ability to learn science.
Publications
| Title | Authors | Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5E-SESE Phase 1 Research Report | Ruhter, L., Swinburne Romine, R., Karvonen, M., & Koebley, S. | Published 2020 |