Overview
The Research and Evidence Synthesis (RES) Team gathers and analyzes evidence-based information for use in all PEPNet 2 (pn2) programmatic activities, technical assistance, and products.
The RES Team is responsible for the following:
- Conducting the national needs assessment
- Identifying ways that pn2 can meet the varied needs of diverse stakeholders
- Summarizing the research literature
- Conducting targeted studies
- Providing summaries of findings on factors that affect postsecondary outcomes for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing
Outcomes
Investigations are ongoing. The RES Team will expand the needs assessment to identify factors that help or hinder individuals as they move from secondary to postsecondary settings and beyond. These activities will look at how state and federal agencies, institutions, professionals, and local communities work together to support individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Project Design
Purpose
The RES Team uses established research methods to determine what resources stakeholders need and ensures that pn2 resources are based on timely, rigorous study and analysis. The RES Team compiles information into summaries based on content areas important to stakeholders. These summaries enable pn2 to provide clear, practical information for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, their families, and the professionals who work with them. Research outcomes will be presented in a variety of accessible formats at conferences, in white papers, and online.
Procedures
Needs Assessment: More than 1,500 pn2 stakeholders responded to the 2012 pn2 needs assessment, developed and administered by the RES Team. The responses to the surveys, focus groups, and interviews will enable pn2 to provide activities, products, and training that meet stakeholders’ needs.
Qualitative Research: The RES Team is conducting an ongoing qualitative analysis of interview data from professionals who serve individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing in a variety of settings. We interview professionals with various roles, including vocational rehabilitation specialists, community-based mental health practitioners, and state coordinators for disability services.
Participants
Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals transitioning to postsecondary education or vocational settings
Background
Pn2 is funded by the Research to Practice Division, Office of Special Education Programs, U.S. Department of Education, via Cooperative Agreement H326D110003.