Improving Outcomes Through Research, Innovation and Partnerships
The Department of Special Education conducts research and leads outreach initiatives that improve educational opportunities and quality of life for individuals with disabilities across the lifespan. Through partnerships with schools, families and communities, faculty and students explore effective approaches to assessment, intervention, literacy, behavior support and teacher preparation.
By connecting research with practice, the department develops innovative programs and evidence-based solutions that support learners, educators and families. This work strengthens schools, advances inclusive and effective educational practices, and helps improve outcomes for children, youth and adults in Missouri and beyond.
Linking Science, Math and Literacy
Linking Science, Math, & Literacy helps middle school educators integrate science, mathematics, literacy and argumentation through the use of multimodal STEM text sets. Through a two-year professional development program, teachers learn to design and implement engaging, research-based learning experiences that build content knowledge, strengthen literacy skills and support meaningful learning for all students.
The Lembke Research Group conducts research that helps educators make informed instructional decisions and improve outcomes for students with academic and learning challenges. Through the development of assessments, progress-monitoring tools and evidence-based interventions, the group advances research in reading, writing and mathematics while helping schools support students more effectively.
Multilingualism, Special Education & Teacher Innovations (METI) Lab conducts research focused on improving educational outcomes for multilingual learners and students with disabilities. Through studies on teacher preparation, literacy development and technology-supported interventions, the lab develops innovative approaches that help educators create more effective, accessible and engaging learning experiences for all learners.
Missouri Schoolwide Positive Behavior Support (MO SW-PBS) helps schools create positive learning environments where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Through research-based practices, training and ongoing support, the program helps educators improve student behavior, strengthen school culture and promote positive outcomes.
The faculty in the Department of Special Education conduct research focused on improving outcomes for individuals with disabilities across the lifespan. Their work spans areas such as learning and behavioral interventions, assessment, literacy development and teacher preparation, with an emphasis on applied research that supports schools, families and communities.
