research -
current projects
A Latent Class Analysis of Professional Development Opportunities for Special Education Teachers in Rural School Districts
In collaboration with Dr. Thomas WIlliams (Virginia Tech, Dept of Education), we used data from the 2017-18. National Teacher and Principal Survey to identify a teacher typology concerning early career professional development. Resulting latent classes were compared regarding job satisfaction and intention to leave the teaching field. The findings provide important insights into how rural school districts should focus their efforts re: providing PD opportunities to their novice teachers.
Examining the Impact of COVID-19 on Transition Services for Autistic Youth: A Qualitative Analysis
In collaboration with Megan Fok, M.S. and Liz DeLucia, M.S. (Virginia Tech) we conducted qualitative interviews with caregivers, special education personnel, and autistic youth regarding their experiences of COVID-19, virtual learning, and the impact these had on transition services, specifically. While it is known that people with disabilities are at greater risk for experiencing disproportionate consequences during emergencies, our qualitative study is the first to examine its effects on transition services for autistic students.
Examining Barriers and Facilitators to the Implementation of Parent Coaching in Early Intervention
In collaboration with Drs. Melanie Pellecchia (University of Pennsylvania), Aubyn Stahmer (University of California - Davis), Rinad Beidas, David Mandell, and Rebecca Stewart, and Liza Tomczuk (University of Pennsylvania), qualitative interviews were conducted with caregivers of autistic youth who were enrolled in early intervention, as well as early intervention providers and agency leaders to learn about barriers/facilitators to using parent coaching. Findings will help to inform targeted implementation supports focused on improving the implementation of parent coaching in publicly-funded early intervention.
Outcome Measures for Evaluating Inclusive Early Childhood Programs for Autistic Youth: A Systematic Review
In collaboration with Drs. Melanie Pellecchia (University of Pennsylavnia), Lindee Morgan (Emory, Marcus Autism Center), Leann Dewalt (University of Wisconsin - Madison). and Allison Jobin (California State University, San Marcos), we systematically reviewed studies that evaluated the outcomes of inclusive early childhood programs for autistic youth. Results will inform future studies aimed at improving inclusive early childhood programming.
completed projects
Access to Autism Spectrum Disorder Services for Rural Appalachian Citizens
Low-resource rural communities face significant challenges regarding the availability and adequacy of evidence-based services. With respect to accessing evidence-based services for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), this project used a mixed-methods approach to identify the needs of rural citizens in the South-Central Appalachian region, an area notable for persistent health disparities. This project was conducted in collaboration with faculty at Virginia Tech and the University of Kentucky, and community members and service providers affiliated with the Mount Rogers Community Service Board.
Novel Methods of Delivering Autism Assessment and Psychoeducation in Rural Southwest Virginia
Early detection and support, including psychoeducation, improve outcomes and quality of life for autistic children. However, rural communities experience substantial delays in autism diagnosis and services due to several barriers, including few providers with expertise in autism, unaffordability of services, and geographic isolation. To address these barriers, this pilot study, spearheaded by Jennifer Bertollo, M.S. (Virginia Tech) assessed the feasibility of delivering autism assessment through a mobile clinic and an autism teleassessment protocol.
Article under review
A Qualitative Analysis of Employer Perspectives on the Hiring and Employment of Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published in the Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, qualitative interviews and analyses were conducted with several employers from various industries in an effort to understand: 1) employers' perspectives on factors that influence the decision to hire an individual with ASD, 2) employers' needs in order to hire and integrate an employee with ASD into the workplace, and 3) the skills employers perceive as important to workplace success.
skills & proficiencies
Behavioral Methods
Extensive clinical assessment, diagnostic, behavioral assessments and behavioral coding skills
Analytic Skills
Regression, Structural Equation Modeling, and extensive qualitative analysis experience
Software
NVivo, ATLAS.ti, SPSS, MPlus REDCap, Qualtrics, Covidence, BORIS Coding Software
Additional Skills
Extensive leadership experience, excellent communicator, strong writer with history of funding acquisition