Topic Areas > News and Updates
01. October 2014 Newsletter
October 2014
Welcome to our first newsletter!
Expanding Opportunities for All Children: TRI on the Cutting Edge of Inclusion
This past July (2014), TRI faculty and staff were invited to present at national education conferences across the country to share their research-based, cutting edge approaches to inclusive education -- assuring that all children have an equal opportunity to succeed. Freshly back from the OSEP Project Directors Meeting (the Office of Special Education Programs), and the 2014 Deaf-Blind Summit, they share their thoughts, observations and reflections.
Just as at the time of its inception,TRI continues to add to the body of research and innovation in the field of education. We are moved by the quality, dedication, and passion of our faculty and staff, and proud of their contributions to the larger conversation about education.
In this article, you will find insiders' views from Patricia Blasco, Amy Parker, Jay Gense, and John Reiman. They share about the direction of inclusive education and what is needed to offer all students a chance to create a successful and fulfilling future.
How to Use Sign Language Interpreters Effectively
Compiled by Leanne Cook
- Speak at your natural pace but be aware that the interpreter may wait to hear and understand a complete thought before beginning to interpret.
- Look at and speak directly to the person who is deaf or heard of hearing.
- Increase eye contact.
- Position the interpreter next to you (the hearing person) or the person presenting the information, opposite the deaf person.
- If you are handing out written materials during a presentation or meeting, please give a copy to the interpreter.
- The interpreter is present to facilitate communication. If you have questions about the deaf person or sign language, ask the deaf person directly.
To read the full article, click here.
What is Teaching Research Institute?
Our mission at the Teaching Research Institute (TRI) is to inform and facilitate change in educational and human service systems that improves the quality of life for individuals.
During the fiscal year 2014, TRI housed 10 federally funded projects, 10 state funded projects, one foundation funded project, one project funded through a private company and one project funded through program income (Child Development Center). Seven new projects were funded in FY2014.
TRI’s projects provided direct service to individuals in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and the Pacific Basin; 33 of 36 Oregon counties; and 165 out of 197 Oregon school districts. Over 3,000 education and human service professionals were directly impacted through TRI’s services.
The Little Brain That Could: Understanding Executive Function in Early Childhood
by Patricia M. Blasco, Sage Saxton, and Mary Gerrie
"Executive function (EF) refers to a group of neurocognitive processes that direct, connect, and organize information in the brain, which is then manifested in planned behavior. ...
"As in the story of the 'Little Engine That Could' (Piper, 1954), with scaffolding and resources, young children can attempt difficult tasks through planning and setting goals. Professionals and parents can be the team reminding the child 'I think I can, I think I can,' until he or she reaches 'I know I can!' This story parallels the important journey during the preschool years as the child develops and integrates [Executive Function] capacity."
This article, co-authored by Teaching Research Institute's Patricia M. Blaso, PhD, and published in Young Exceptional Children, explores executive function in early childhood and the role of EF skills in school readiness.
OUR CENTERS
Center on Educator Preparation & Effectiveness
Technology & Information Management Services
UPCOMING EVENTS
Discover what's happening next at TRI by visiting our Calendar.
WALK THROUGH THE DOORS: The Education Evaluation Center
By Carol Dennis
When I was first asked to write a blog post about the Education Evaluation Center at TRI, I expected to find out about the list of tests and assessments they use, the data they collect, and the medical names of the diagnoses checked off in their clients’ files.
Instead, I found a group of passionate people who take the time to reach into the hearts and souls of everyone who walks through their door, on a mission to answer a lifetime of gnawing questions about what might be keeping that person from blossoming completely....
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