College
Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Date of Last Revision
2025-12-11 06:53:45
Major
Adolescent to Young Adult
Honors Course
EDCI 431
Number of Credits
3
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts in Education
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2026
Abstract
This project is a reflective case study exploring my personal experiences as a job coach for students with disabilities at Total Education Solutions. The research focuses on my own observations, interpretations, and emotional responses while alternating between student-centered and teacher-directed instructional approaches during workforce readiness sessions. By journaling daily, I will analyze how I perceive student engagement, task completion, and session flow under different coaching styles. The consistent student group, task structure, and session format will allow for focused, qualitative reflection without collecting any student-specific data. The study aims to deepen my understanding of instructional decision-making in real-world coaching settings and foster my growth as an educator. The final product will be a written report submitted to the Honors College and may also be presented to an educational audience. This project integrates theory and practice, builds on my undergraduate coursework in education and highlights the role of reflective teaching in promoting ethical, student-centered learning environments.
Research Sponsor
Karen Plaster
First Reader
Renee Mudrey
Second Reader
Alfred Davis
Honors Faculty Advisor
Gary Holliday
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Recommended Citation
Piekarski, Cailey R., "Reflective Observations of Instructional Approaches in Job Coaching: A Personal Perspective on Student-Centered Strategies for Students with Disabilities" (2026). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 2076.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/2076
Included in
Disability and Equity in Education Commons, Other Teacher Education and Professional Development Commons