Keywords

special education, diversity, recruitment, technology, attract, teacher shortage

Abstract

This dissertation explores the impact of digital innovation on diversifying recruitment in special education teacher preparation programs. Amidst a critical shortage of special education teachers in the United States, the current research addresses the dual challenges of recruiting diverse educators and mitigating systemic disparities affecting students with disabilities. Utilizing Cultural Historical Activity Theory, the study critically evaluates Project RISE, an online recruitment platform designed to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of special education teacher preparation programs.

The dissertation comprises three articles. The first article is a systematic literature review synthesizing findings on the role of technology in recruiting diverse educators, highlighting the potential of digital platforms to engage historically excluded groups. The second article presents an empirical study assessing the usability and efficiency of Project RISE. The third article offers practical recommendations based on these findings, advocating for the integration of digital tools to streamline recruitment and support prospective educators from varied backgrounds.

Key findings indicate while traditional recruitment methods are limited in reach and effectiveness, digital platforms like Project RISE can bridge the gap by offering transparent, user-friendly access to program information. The study underscores the importance of culturally responsive recruitment strategies and the need for continuous feedback from users to refine these digital tools. Overall, the dissertation contributes to the broader discourse on educational equity by proposing innovative solutions to diversify the SET workforce, ultimately enhancing the educational outcomes for students with disabilities.

Completion Date

2024

Semester

Summer

Committee Chair

Vasquez III, Eleazar

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Community Innovation and Education

Department

Department of Learning Sciences & Educational Research

Degree Program

Exceptional Student Education

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

DP0028611

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0028611

Language

English

Rights

In copyright

Release Date

August 2027

Length of Campus-only Access

3 years

Access Status

Doctoral Dissertation (Campus-only Access)

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Accessibility Status

Meets minimum standards for ETDs/HUTs

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Restricted to the UCF community until August 2027; it will then be open access.

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