Dr. Patricia Hampshire is an Associate Professor in Special Education and Early Childhood Studies at Boise State University. Dr. Hampshire received her PhD in Special Education at Indiana University. Dr. Hampshire teaches courses focused on early intervention, collaborating with families, child development and working with students with autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Hampshire’s areas of expertise include early childhood special education, developing family-focused interventions, autism spectrum disorders, and working with individuals with severe behavior. Dr. Hampshire has worked in both the educational and clinical settings as a special education teacher, parent coach, consultant and researcher. Dr. Hampshire’s current research focuses on teaching student with autism to self-manage during homework routines through the use of iPads. Dr. Hampshire’s work has been included in Teaching Exceptional Children, Intervention in School and Clinic, and Beyond Behavior.
Patricia’s Approach:
This video highlights the use of Service Learning as a medium for teaching students in ESP 321. This course focuses on strategies for working with diverse families to develop collaborative relationships while building comprehensive educational services. The majority of the students are special education and/or early childhood special education majors. In this course I use service learning as a hands-on learning opportunity for students to apply the strategies they learn through course readings and discussion. Service learning also provides support to community organizations that strive to enhance the lives of diverse individuals and their families. Through assignments and class discussions, students reflect on their service project in order to increase their understanding of course content while exploring the significance of service within their own community.
BENEFITS AND IMPACTS
- A “bridge” between the course content and application in “real world” settings
- Emphasizes reciprocal learning
- Introduces students to the world of service and their role as active community members
LESSONS LEARNED
- Taking the time to pick partners that are a good match for your course learning goals
- Use the resources here at the university. For example, the CTL and Service Learning Department.
- Find partners and then take the time to develop long-term relationships where projects can grow and impact the organization over time