Knowledge of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Among Special Educators

Abstract

Research on stakeholders in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) management in the schools has shown that several school personnel (e.g., nurses, athletic trainers, principals, speech-language pathologists) all contribute unique knowledge to a school-based mTBI management team. Special educators (SPEs) may be another stakeholder group that could provide additional knowledge and expertise in working with children in the schools following mTBI. We examined SPEs knowledge and perceptions of ability to support students with mTBI through an online survey. Results suggested that SPEs may provide unique, valuable knowledge that warrants their involvement on an mTBI management team. Similar to other school personnel, data from SPEs revealed specific areas of knowledge, as well as specific areas where knowledge was lacking. With additional focused continuing education and more clearly defined roles, SPEs may be an integral member of mTBI management teams.