INSPIRE Lab – Projects

The INSPIRE Lab advances research focused on inclusive education, innovative instructional practices, and technology-enhanced learning. Our projects explore immersive technologies, teacher preparation, science education, and schoolwide systems of support to improve educational experiences and outcomes for students with disabilities.

Project IMMERSE

Immersive Mobile Multisensory Experiences for Real-world Science Education

In collaboration with Hi5 Lab, Project IMMERSE focuses on developing and evaluating an innovative virtual reality (VR) mobile application designed to support science instruction for elementary-aged students with autism. The application will provide engaging, interactive, and multisensory learning experiences that promote understanding of foundational science concepts through immersive virtual environments. By integrating evidence-based instructional strategies with emerging technologies, the project aims to increase student engagement, conceptual understanding, and access to meaningful science learning opportunities. The project will also examine the usability and effectiveness of the application to inform future development of technology-enhanced instructional tools for students with autism.

Project START

Special Education Teacher Admission, Readiness, and Transition

Project START examines the impact of a foundational Special Education (SPED 101) mini-module embedded within program orientation on student success in an online, alternative-route graduate program leading to initial teacher licensure in special education. The module is designed to introduce incoming students to essential special education concepts, terminology, and practices to strengthen their foundational knowledge and readiness for graduate coursework. The project will evaluate whether participation in the module influences students' academic performance and overall success in the program, with findings informing future orientation practices and student support strategies.

Project SCAN

Science Content Application Navigation

Project SCAN focuses on developing and validating a systematic coding framework for evaluating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) mobile applications designed to support science education. The project aims to identify and assess key application features, including science content alignment, instructional design, accessibility, usability, and interactive learning opportunities. Through a structured evaluation process, the project will establish criteria for examining the educational quality and potential instructional value of immersive science applications. Findings will provide researchers and educators with a practical framework for selecting, evaluating, and developing technology-enhanced science learning tools.

Project INSIGHT

Investigating Science Instruction and Growth through Human Experiences and Technology

Project INSIGHT is a multi-phase research study designed to explore the experiences, instructional practices, and perspectives of general and special education teachers who teach science content to students with autism. Through surveys, interviews, and classroom observations, the project examines how educators approach science instruction, the challenges and supports they encounter, and their use of immersive technologies, including augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). The study also seeks to identify factors that influence teachers' adoption and integration of these technologies into science instruction. Findings will inform the development of accessible, evidence-based instructional practices and technology-enhanced learning opportunities for students with autism.

Project ASCEND PBIS

Advancing School Climate through Evidence-based Networks and District Partnerships

Project ASCEND PBIS is a four-year initiative focused on strengthening positive school climate through university–school partnerships. This project supports schoolwide implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) through professional development, technical assistance, and data-informed planning. It also promotes the integration of a three-tiered Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework into university coursework and school-based practices.