Dr. Jennifer E. Kong, Assistant Professor at Attallah College of Educational Studies, has made an impactful presence at the 45th International Conference of the Council for Learning Disabilities. Dr. Kong, known for her innovative approaches to special education research, spearheaded multiple presentations focusing on the integration of technology in learning disabilities.

One of the highlights of the conference was Dr. Kong’s collaboration with Dr. Trisha Sugita, Instructional Associate Professor and Director of Chapman’s Teacher Education Programs, and Attallah College Ph.D. students Tanya Belom, Lamiya Hoque, and Joelle Prate. Together, they presented a comprehensive research update titled “A Meta-analysis of Technology Integration in Problem Solving Interventions.” This presentation explored how technology can be effectively utilized in special education interventions.

(L-R): Ph.D. Student Joelle Prate and Dr. Jennifer Kong.

(L-R): Ph.D. Student Joelle Prate and Dr. Jennifer Kong.

“We are very excited about the initial findings of this study.  This is just the beginning of investigating the benefits of integrating technology within math problem-solving instruction for students with learning disabilities. ,” Dr. Kong said. “It is essential that we continue to explore and innovate in this area to provide quality evidence-based instruction and better support students with disabilities in the area of math.”

Ph.D. Student Joelle Prate shares research information during the poster session.

Ph.D. Student Joelle Prate shares research information during the poster session.

Another notable presentation, “Learning Disabilities & Technology: Information Communication & Technology Committee Database Update 2017-2023,” co-presented by Dr. Kong, provided crucial updates on technological advancements in the field of learning disabilities over the past six years.

The conference also featured a roundtable discussion led by Dr. Courtney Toledo (Georgia Southern University), Dr. Danielle Feeney (Ohio University), and Dr. Kong, focusing on the integration of Electronic Evidence Journals in special education teacher preparation. This session highlighted the preliminary findings of a research study that investigated pre-service teachers’ attitudes and perceptions of the integration of evidence journals in their coursework and subsequent efforts on their content knowledge, skill attainment, and self-regulated learning.

Dean Roxanne Greitz Miller of Attallah College remarks, “Dr. Kong’s work is a shining example of student-involved, cutting-edge research that we nurture at our college. Her contributions speak not only to better-serving students with special needs but also to the larger realm of technology-driven solutions that promote student learning.”

The conference concluded with the Council for Learning Disabilities honoring the “Leadership Academy Cohort 11” at the President’s Conference Reception. Dr. Kong recognized as one of the emerging leaders who demonstrated potential through service to the field and the Council for Learning Disabilities, was celebrated among her esteemed peers.

Dr. Jennifer E. Kong was honored at the President's Conference Reception as part of the Leadership Academy Cohort 11.

Dr. Jennifer E. Kong was honored at the President’s Conference Reception as part of the Leadership Academy Cohort 11.

Attallah College is immensely proud of Dr. Kong and our Ph.D. students’ pursuit of research in learning disabilities. Their participation and recognition at this year’s conference are testaments to the high caliber of faculty and students dedicated to making meaningful advancements in special education.