Research Article Analysis

The change project that is currently being implemented focuses on the EAs who
work in my classroom. This year, I have two EAs who work with me. The first EA I have
comes for 30 minutes and takes a reading group. Previously, she took this group to the
resource room. However, now she works at a reading table in my classroom. The second
EA I have who works with me comes for 60 minutes. Before this change project, she
would take one reading group for 30 minutes to the resource room. She would bring the
students back and take a math group back to the resource room and work with them there
for 30 minutes. Now that the change project has been implemented, EAs and students
have been working in the classroom. Before this change project I thought that I was using
my EAs appropriately, however, after learning about inclusive classrooms, I realized this
wasnt the case. I wanted to implement this change project for a few reasons. First, I
didnt want students to leave the classroom anymore due to the feelings of alienation and
being removed from the classroom community. Next, I wanted to address the issue of
time wasting. At times, in a 30- minute session, 6-13 minutes were wasted. Since
April.11th, when my change project was implemented, I wanted students and EAs to work
in the classroom and discontinue them from leaving the classroom. Every day, the EAs
come into my classroom to work with their groups of students. The following research
articles were used to provide me with insight for my change project. These articles
include many suggestions on how to effectively use EAs in the classroom.

Article 1
Article reference:
Butt, R. (2016). Teacher assistant support and
deployment in mainstream schools.
International Journal of Inclusive Education,
20(4), 1-13. doi:10.1080/13603116.2016.1145260

Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this study is to examine the use of
teacher assistants in the classroom and the
effectiveness of the models used.

Summarize the method in your own words:

This study was conducted over a period of three
years and included almost 40 hours of
observation and about 20 hours of interviews in
four different primary schools. Many different
perspectives were observed including TAs
providing one-on-one support, some that were
moved from class to class, and some that were
using a withdrawal model of support.

Draw a figurative representation.

Students-in-class-with-teacher-reading by
List the outcomes in point form, underlining five
key words.
Five models of TA support were observed in this
study. These models include:
Withdrawal model- students were
withdrawn from their classroom. Quality
of instruction was uncertain, students
were distanced, and self-esteem was
affected negatively.
Itinerant TA model- teachers and TAs
rarely communicated, tasks werent
planned, transient and disconnected.
Unit model- permanently assigned to
classes, but no support or supervision
from teachers.
One-on-One model- students physically
withdrawn and separated from peers,
teachers, and curriculum.
Class support model- most effective,
benefitted the whole class, positive
rapport with students.
The TAAD model of TA deployment was
discussed along with the advantaged and
disadvantaged of it. There is also discussion on
how to successfully implement it.

Ilmicrofono Oggiono licensed by CC BY 2.0

Write two questions you have about the research.
1.

The research study took place at four

different schools. The findings stated that
the class support model was most effective.
It was also suggested that the TAAF model
is recommended. Were the results of the
study shared with each school?
2. Did the schools all switch their practice to
the class support model of the TAAF
model?

Implications for change project

This study was to determine the use of TAs in the classroom and the models that they follow. It was
evident that most schools in the study used their TAs ineffectively. This study is very recent, and
even though inclusion is a focus for many school divisions, many students are still being excluded due to
the improper use of EAs. This applies to my change project because my school, including myself,
remove students from the classroom to work with TAs . As stated in the study, students miss out on
much of the curriculum, teacher time, and working with their peers. They also feel disconnected,
withdrawn and have a low self -esteem. By making this change in my classroom, I will ensure that all
students are included regardless of their learning abilities.

Article 2
Article reference:
Blatchford, P., Bassett, P., Brown, P., Martin, C.,
Russell, A., & Webster, R. (2011). The impact of
support staff on pupils positive approaches to
learning and their academic progress. British
Educational Research Journal, 37(3), 443-464.
doi:10.1080/01411921003734645

Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this study was to determine the
relationship between the amount of support and
pupils Positive Approaches to Learning (PAL) and
academic progress.

Summarize the method in your own words.

This qualitative study focused on connections
with pupil and teachers to ensure the impact of
support staff in schools. This study took place in
many different schools. Information was
collected which included information of students,
the amount of support, and the student
outcomes.

Draw a figurative representation.

Fairview sl Spanish readaloud 6 by mosaic36 is

licensed under CC BY 2.0
List the outcomes in point form, underlining five
key words.
In every case, the higher the support,
the lower the level of attainment for
students.
Consequences of TA support include
students becoming reliant on TA.
Students are less willing to engage in
independent work.

Write two questions you have about the research.

1. Do school divisions provide adequate
training for Educational Assistants, which
includes the most common and beneficial
practice for assisting students?
2. What kinds of questions did the
researchers ask the teachers and students
while collecting information on the TA and
level of support?

Pupil characteristics account for the

relationship between progress and
support.
With appropriate training, support staff
can play a positive role in students
progress

Implications for change project

There are many different types of support staff in schools. There are some who working within the
classroom, and some who remove students from the classroom. It is evident that the higher the level
of support staff, the lower level of attainment for students. This is likely due to the reliance of
support staff. However, with appropriate training and guidance, support staff can play a critical role
for students and teachers. I think that this applies to my project because it is evident that if used
correctly, support staff can be very beneficial. I think it is necessary for teachers and administrators
to assist support staff and guide them when working with students.

Article 3
Article reference:
Mcvittie, E. (2005). The role of the teaching
assistant: An investigative study to discover if
teaching assistants are being used effectively to
support children with special educational needs in
mainstream schools. Education 3-13, 33(3), 26-31.
doi:10.1080/03004270585200301

Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this study was to determine
whether teaching assistants are being used
effectively to support children with special
educational needs.

Summarize the method in your own words.

The method of this study was to collect both
qualitative and quantitative information. This
included questionnaires, interviews, and analysis
of evidence. The data was gathered from a
primary school.

Draw a figurative representation.

Olsen visiting a school classroom by Kristin Olsen

licensed by CC BY-SA 3.0
List the outcomes in point form, underlining five
key words.
TAs are aware of the ways to be
employed effectively.
60 percent of TAs planned activities

Write two questions you have about the research.

1. If teachers assistants take it upon
themselves to get more current training, is
there an incentive or pay increase that is
offered to them?

were planned on their own and need to be

more involved in the communication of the
school.
TAs should be encouraged to use and
develop skills they use in the school.
TAs should be included and supported in
the schools professional development.
All adults should have a professional
regard for TAs, which will, in turn, allow
them to use their initiative.

2.

Did the teacher assistants in this research

article feel supported by the teachers they
worked with? Why did many of them plan
activities on their own?

Implications for change project

When looking at this studies conclusions, it is obvious that there are many recommendations that would
maximize the effectiveness of TAs. One finding that I find interesting is that TAs should be included
in the schools professional development. I know that this is not something I can change within this
project timeline. However, it would be nice to see TAs join us during our professional development
days. One result that I think I can work on throughout my project is to do more collaboration and
planning for the EAs who I work with. I already do the majority of the planning but I feel that with
more communication between us, we will be even more successful.

Article 4
Article reference:
Blatchford, P., Russell A., & Webster, R. (2013).
Challenging and changing how schools use
teaching assistants: findings from the effective
deployment of teaching assistants project.
School Leadership & Management, 33(1), 78-96.
doi: 10.1080/13632434.2012.724672
Summarize the method in your own words.
This study was a collaborative research project
that worked with adults in the school to develop
strategies for TAs to be the most effective in
the classroom. It took place in 10 different
schools and involved teachers and TAs.
Information was gathered by administering
observations, interviews, notes and audits.

List the outcomes in point form, underlining five

key words.

Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this study was to develop and
evaluate alternative strategies to the components
of the Wider Pedagogical Role model, which were
Teacher Assistant preparedness, deployment, and
practice.
Draw a figurative representation.

Birch Meadow Elementary School Visit by

Massachusetts Education licensed by CC BY-NC-SA
2.0
Write two questions you have about the research.
1. How can we allow more teacher and teacher

Teacher and teacher assistant time were

limited- schools found time to allow for
this.
TAs often found themselves
underprepared from a lack of time.
TAs were often passive in class and
their role is restricted.
Many teacher assistants were assigned to
one student who had special needs.
Often times TAs prioritized task
completion over learning and
understanding
Schools made productive changes with
their TAs which then increased the
productive use of support staff

assistant time to ensure that collaboration

and preparedness are happening?
2. What would be the result if the teacher
assistants were removed from a classroom
all together? Would student independence
increase?

Implications for change project

I found this article to have similar outcomes as other articles I have reviewed. I think that there are
many great things that were done to develop strategies for TAs to use in the classroom. Prep time
allowed for collaboration and direction that comes from administration are out of my control. I can,
however, ensure that my EAs know their role in the classroom to ensure their role is neither passive
nor restricted. I also think it would be worthwhile to stress to them that learning and understanding is
valued rather than task completion. If an EA is worried about completing work in a time limit, student
learning is likely to be affected.

Article 5
Article reference:
Truswell, E., & Woolfson, R. C. (2005). Do
classroom assistants work? Educational Research,
47(1), 63-75.
doi:10.1080/0013188042000337569

Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this study was to determine the
effectiveness of classroom assistants. A program
called the Classroom Assistant Project (CAP) was
implemented to support early years learning. The
purpose of this program was to improve the quality
of learning, positive development of students and
encourage parental involvement.

Summarize the method in your own words.

The study looked at the viewpoints of many
different groups in the school system. This
included the views of parents (questionnaires),
classroom assistants (interviews), teachers
(interviews), students (focus groups), and
observations of the classroom and playground.
This study was supervised by an Ethics board

Draw a figurative representation.

which ensured the confidentiality anonymity and

that everything was handled properly

Consul General Lochman at Mangilaluk School in

Tuktoyaktuk by US Embassy Canada licensed by
CC BY 2.0
Write two questions you have about the research.
1. This study depended on interviews and
questionnaires, and observations. Did they
determine their results using one method
more than the other?
2. How much funding went into the CAP
program and was the funding provided by
the school division?

List the outcomes in point form, underlining five

key words.
The following are positive outcomes from various
groups describing the classroom assistants.
Parents- most noted that classroom
assistants have played a part in improving
or promoting their childs learning.
Teachers- good emotional, behavioural
and social support, positive impact on
learning.
Students- provided positive
reinforcement, support, involvement.
Classroom/Playground- improving the
quality of learning, positively impacting
personal and social development, and
development of parental initiatives.
Classroom assistants can make a strong
contribution to having a positive impact
on students development and improving
the quality of learning.
The classroom assistant is likely to be
effective if parents are informed of
their role within the school.
Implications for change project
The CAP program seems to be successful according to the findings. It makes sense that by providing
training and support will help people develop the strategies needed to do their job in the best way
possible. One aspect of this study that I found varied from the others was the stress on parent
involvement. As a teacher, I know that parent involvement is extremely important and I feel I do a
great job of this. However, I think there can be more information provided to parents whose child is
working with an EA. I plan to inform the parents of students who are working with my EAs to inform
them of what they will be doing and that they will be remaining in my classroom and be a part of the
learning environment rather than being removed from the classroom. If this small change can make a
difference than I think it is worth doing. I will also be able to inform my EAs that I will be doing this.

Article 6
Article reference.
Devecchi, C., Dettori, F., Doveston, M., Sedgwick,
P., & Jament, J. (2012). Inclusive classrooms in
Italy and England: The role of support teachers
and teaching assistants. European Journal of
Special Needs Education, 27(2), 171-184.
doi:10.1080/08856257.2011.645587
Summarize the method in your own words.
The results from this study were obtained from
an ethnographic study and a mixed method study.
This included 20 semi-structured interviews with
support teachers. They have been working for
five years or more in their position.

Purpose of the study:

This study evaluated the reasons why so many
teacher assistants decide to leave their position
once they gain the knowledge and experience to
ensure the inclusion of children with special needs.

Draw a figurative representation.

Teachers and Children in an Italian Kindergarten

by Vincenzo Mainardi is licensed under CC BY-SA
3.0
List the outcomes in point form, underlining five
key words.
Practices of exclusion and marginalization still
exist. This is from:
Unclear roles and responsibilities
Unresolved discrepancies between
teachers and support staff
Unresolved discrepancies between school
staff and other professionals or parents
This can be caused by differential treatment of
support staff, lack of accredited qualifications
(unsure of what to do with students), or qualified
support teachers (results in a lack of teacher
support). Supporting students with special needs
in still often done in isolation and collaboration
with the classroom teacher is minimal. Ongoing
collaboration for support teachers is needed.

Write two questions you have about the research.

1. This study took place in Italy and England.
How is their education system different
than ours in Canada and would this impact
the relevance of results?
2. This study took place with teacher
assistants that had been working five or
more years in their position. Would the
results differ if the teacher assistants
were in their position less than five years?

Implications for change project

It is evident through all of the research completed that exclusion still exists. Even in what we think as
teachers is an inclusive environment, having students leave the classroom for support is not an inclusive
practice. Before taking this class I thought that I was using my EAs effectively, however, it is evident
that this is not the case. I think that this study helps me understand that I need to communicate with

my EAs their daily roles and responsibilities. If there are any issues or discrepancies they need to be
dealt with right away. This article also helped me understand the feelings that some support staff may
have. I will be sure to give my EAs the necessary support and feedback needed to be successful.

Article 7
Article reference.
Cremin, H., Thomas. G., & Vincett, K. (2005).
Working with teaching assistants: Three models
evaluated. Research Papers in Education, 20(4),
413-432. doi: 10.1080/02671520500335881

Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this study was to determine the
effectiveness of three different models for using
teacher assistants. These three models include
room management, zoning, and reflective teamwork.

Summarize the method in your own words.

This study evaluated three models of using
teacher assistants in six primary schools.
Structured observations, interviews, and
feedback were used to evaluate the study. A
baseline of student engagement was taken prior
to the three models being implemented and after
the models were implemented.

Draw a figurative representation.

Creative Curriculum:CDCs provide tools to connect,

parents, teachers, children-FMWRC-US Army100820 by U.S. Army licensed by CC BY 2.0
List the outcomes in point form, underlining five
key words.
The following is the findings from the three
models that were implemented.
Room management- divided teacher tasks
and attributes specific roles and
activities to support staff. This method
resulted in many children receiving
support and guidance. Most childrens
level of engagement increased. Time
needed for preparation.
Zoning- allocating roles for support in the
classroom according to classroom
geography and the groups there.
Students had a hard time understanding
who to go to and had to be reminded many
times of the rules. Teachers felt
successful, as did the support teachers.

Write two questions you have about the research.

1. Were all teachers in the study informed of
the results of the study? If so, did they all
use the Room Management method once the
study was over?
2. If teachers and teacher assistants werent
given sufficient time to implement the
Room Management model, would the results
be different?

Reflective teamwork- teachers and

support staff work together, develop and
discuss in advance ways to work as a
team. It was noted that the teacher and
assistant relationship was strengthened.
Overall, the Room Management procedure
appeared to affect the most significant
increases in engagement. This model is the most
radical involving the most change and the
greatest degree of planning. Feedback noted that
it was critical to get the time needed for
planning.

Implications for change project

This article examined three models that are commonly used in the classroom with teacher assistants.
Out of the three models, I am not surprised that room management was the most effective model.
Many students received support and both the teacher and teacher assistant were clear of their roles
and responsibilities. I think that this study relates to my project because it is important that we are
both aware of our roles. Without being aware of our roles this may cause confusion between the two of
us and even the students. Although I am not fully implementing the room management model due to my
EAs working with groups, I think that there are positive similarities that prove to be beneficial.

Article 8
Article reference:
Dunbar, C., Dunn, J., Ferguson, J., Gray, C.,
McCloy, S., Mitchell, D. (2007). Added face
value or a familiar face? Journal of Early
Childhood Research, 5(3) 285-300. doi:
10.1177/1476718X07080474

Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact
learning support assistants have on the reading
attainment of young children taught in schools.

Summarize the method in your own words.

In six different schools, twelve learning
support teachers (LSA) worked one on one with
students who struggled with reading. Data was
collected by the use of standardized tests and
teacher interviews.

Draw a figurative representation.

Student_ipad_school-033 by Brad Flickinger

licensed by CC BY 2.0

List the outcomes in point form, underlining

five key words.
To keep results consistent, samples of
students receiving support and not
receiving support took place.
Teachers describe learning support
assistants as having a positive impact in
the classroom and wanted to keep their
LSA.
Low ability readers with support
showed no effect over time with
learning support assistant and that low
ability readers without support was
equal to or surpassed the low ability
readers with support.
Middle ability readers with and without
support also had no difference.
In conclusion, the results showed that the
learning support assistant had no effect on the
students reading.

Write two questions you have about the research.

1. Support teachers worked one on one with
students. Would the results differ if support
teachers worked with small groups of
students instead?
2. Due to the small sample size would there be a
difference in results if more learning support
assistants were used?

Implications for change project

I found this article particularly important because it relates directly to the support my EAs provide to
students in my classroom. My EAs work with students in both reading groups and math groups. I found
it interesting how this study concluded that the learning support assistant had no effect on student
reading. I think that although there was no effect, this could be due to the low sample size of the
study. Like the teachers in the study, I still think that my EAs have a positive impact on student
learning and I have seen the students growth throughout the year.

Article 9
Article reference:
Broer, S. M., & Giangreco, M. F. (2005).
Questionable utilization of paraprofessionals in
inclusive schools: Are we addressing symptoms or
causes? Focus on Autism and Other
Developmental Disabilities, 20(1), 10-26. doi:

Purpose of the study:

The purpose of this study is to determine how
paraprofessionals spend their time, their practices,
and what may be reducing the utilization of
paraprofessionals.

Summarize the method in your own words.

This study collected data from a 737 people
including teachers, parents, paraprofessionals,
special educators, and administrators. A total of
12 public schools participated in this study. Data
was collected using questionnaires.

Draw a figurative representation.

10.1177/10883576050200010201

SAD_Hortons_Kids114by Us Department of
Education licensed by CC BY 2.0
List the outcomes in point form, underlining five
key words.
The results from this study concluded that
56% of paraprofessionals who provided
usable responses primarily supported
students with low incidence disabilities
Paraprofessionals spent 86% of their
time in close proximity of their student
with disability
46% of paraprofessionals stated that the
student with a disability that they work
with thought of them as their friend at
school
Many support teachers state that the
student they work with is dependent on
them for all tasks
Data suggests that paraprofessionals
function separately from the role of the
educators
Many paraprofessionals noted that when
it was reporting time, that many teachers
asked the paraprofessionals about the
student because they didnt know enough
about the student

Write two questions you have about the research.

1. This data was collected using
questionnaires and self-reports from staff.
Would the results have differed if
observations were made as well?
2. For the schools who participated in the
study, were they informed of the results
and offered any professional development
on how to effectively use a
paraprofessional?

Implications for change project

This study reveals that many paraprofessionals are stating that a lack of inclusion still exists in
schools. Many students are still being removed from their classroom and have a paraprofessional around
them most of the time. I found it interesting how students who work with paraprofessionals view them
as a friend. I think this shows how being around a child too much in the classroom environment can
hinder their social development. Is this stopping them from developing relationships with other
students? I think this study relates to my project because it is important to keep in mind that TAs can
surround children with disabilities too often. My EAs do not work with students one on one, however, I
think it is important to discuss with them that as a team we need to foster the independence of
students and ensure we arent hovering them. If students are given space to learn and work in a
positive environment, they are likely to thrive.

Article 10
Article reference:
Butt, R. (2016). Employment procedures and
practices challenge teacher assistants in
mainstream schools. School Leadership &
Management, 17(1), 1-17. doi:
10.1080/13632434.2016.1160211

Purpose of the study:

This study wanted to identify the factors that
affect the ability of TAs to provide support to
students and teachers and to identify practices for
TAs to improve on.

Summarize the method in your own words.

This qualitative study focused on various factors
that affect TAs ability while working with
students. Four schools took part in the study and
all have a large number of TAs employed at their
school. 73 participants were involved in this
study and data was collected through
questionnaires, observations, interviews, notes,
and memos.

Draw a figurative representation.

Walter! by Listen Up! Licensed by CC BY-NC-SA

2.0
List the outcomes in point form, underlining five
key words.
Model of deployment for TAs is tied to
funding for students with a disability and
a transient model of support was used
which resulted in TAs struggling
Lack of discussion about student
progress or issues between teacher and
TA
When TAs spent the entire day in the
classroom assisting and not withdrawing
the student, they TA and teacher had
more opportunities for sharing but is
more expensive
Some factors include new TAs being
introduced to the school, review of their
role, providing feedback to them, and
deploying them properly
Due to these factors, TAs experience
role confusion, lack qualifications, skills,
and training

Write two questions you have about the research.

1. This study took place in four schools from
the same division. Would the results change
if schools from other divisions were
involved in the study too?
2. This study took place in Australia. How is
the Australian school system different
from Canadas and would there be a
difference in the results between Australia
and Canada?

Implications for change project

When reading this research study, it was evident that there are many factors that can affect a TAs
job. These factors include qualifications, skills, training, and support. It is evident from this study that
non-inclusive practices still take place. For my change project, many of these factors I cant control. I
cant control how my EAs are trained, the skills they have, or their qualifications. I can, however,
ensure that my EAs get the support and planning that they need to be successful. I have noticed a
trend in almost all of these articles and it is evident that support for these EAs is critical.