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Access Type
WSU Access
Date of Award
January 2025
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Department
Educational Leadership and Policy
First Advisor
Sarah Lenhoff
Abstract
The disproportionality of African American males in special education continues to be a problem in education and this study aims to determine if professional learning in Culturally relevant practices can solve this problem. This mixed method study explores two research questions: 1). How does the amount of professional learning in culturally relevant practices impact the referrals of African American males to special education? and 2). Do teachers in grades K-8th feel prepared to meet the academic and behavioral needs of African American students? Critical Race Theory and Disability Critical Race Theory are used as frameworks for this study. Research question #1 was explored quantitatively through information gathered on Special education referrals of African American male students during the 2018-2022 school years and information gathered from surveys completed by teachers in the district studied regarding the amount of professional learning in culturally relevant practices they completed during 2018-2022 school years. Correlational analysis and Linear regressions were used to analyze data collected. Research question #2 was explored qualitatively through interviews with teachers that were analyzed through narrative analysis. The findings indicated increased hours of professional learning in culturally relevant practices decreased the number of referrals of African American students. In addition, teachers reported the desire to have more in depth professional learning in culturally relevant practices to assist them in feeling prepared to meet the needs of their African American students.
Recommended Citation
Arnold, Tameka, "Are Culturally Relevant Practices The Key To Addressing The Disproportionality Of African American Males In Special Education?" (2025). Wayne State University Dissertations. 4218.
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/oa_dissertations/4218