RED - a Repository of Digital Collections (Minnesota State University Moorhead)

When designing Specially Designed Instruction for students with disabilities, IEP teams have the responsibility to ensure that students are learning alongside non-disabled peers to the greatest extent possible in the least restrictive environment. The purpose of this study is to consider the research on best practice for students with learning disabilities, examine the legal implications for plac…

Abstract This paper explores a self-analysis and a theoretical conceptualization through the lens of cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and attachment theory. These theories are used to examine themes and patterns related to interpersonal functioning, cognitive processes, and to interpret life experiences. CBT is used to examine thoughts, feelings, and behavior and their influ…

Abstract This project is an in-depth analysis of the self, intended to strengthen self-awareness and guide the development of a professional identity as a clinical mental health counselor. Using a narrative exploration of personal background information, this project examines the influence of family dynamics, mental health history, cultural identity, and life experiences. This project includes as…

Abstract This self-assessment explores how personal development, lived experiences, and relational influences shape my emerging professional identity as a counselor. Through a reflective examination of background experiences, this assessment considers how developmental factors shape values, beliefs, and relational tendencies related to clinical practices. Self-assessment instruments, including th…

Early childhood educators in community-based preschools often require support in identifying and assisting children with developmental delays, especially when navigating referral and intervention systems. Many educators are unfamiliar with Minnesota’s Child Find system, Help Me Grow, or the referral process itself. This capstone project aims to create an accessible, practical resource that empowe…

This analysis of self-paper aided me in exploring and reflecting on personal experiences that had a direct impact on my development and identity. Several elements aided in developing an indepth analysis of self, including taking and interpreting assessments, engaging in interviews with significant individuals and reflecting on their responses, and the integration of relevant theories throughout t…

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a necessary support guided by law to ensure access to communication for individuals with unique and complex communication needs. Regardless of the laws, consistent implementation within the school setting remains a challenge. This paper examines ten common barriers that special education teachers face when supporting implementation of AAC within…

This self-analysis paper is written to divulge different information that will be beneficial after the completion of my mental health counseling graduate degree. Within this paper, I explore different topics pertaining to relationships, hobbies, therapeutic theories, and interviews from those who know me best. The analysis works to highlight strengths and abilities, weaknesses, and growth to allo…

This study investigated the association between student engagement, motivation, and self-efficacy in college-level writing-intensive courses using an ungraded approach. Motivated by disillusionment with traditional grading methods and inspired by texts on equitable grading and culturally responsive teaching, the researcher explored how ungrading could foster deeper learning and equitable educatio…

The background information includes the topics of: family/relationships, academics, mental, chemical, and physical health, culture, resilience, and coping skills of the writer. Addressing what has impacted the writer’s life and development is covered. Topics of impact are family structure, heart issues, and my own mental health issues. Application of the assessments, Myers-Briggs type indicator, …

This study examines how ideology operates within local education governance through a critical theoretical lens. As state and national education policies, accountability mandates, and partisan political discourse increasingly shape local school governance, this research investigates how power relations, ideological influences, and equity concerns are embedded in school board decision-making proce…

Abstract This paper examines the development of my personal and professional identity with the help of multiple counseling theories: Family Systems Theory, Developmental Trauma Theory, Adlerian Theory, and Existential Theory. By reflecting on my life experiences, I connect how childhood and family relationships, inconsistent caregiving, and emotional unpredictability impacted my development of se…

The analysis of self can open up new opportunities to reflect on experiences that shape us. Exploring past experiences that got us to where we are now, looking at present experiences and perspectives, as well as looking forward to future career goals all have a part in knowing yourself. Learning about my own journey will help me in supporting others through theirs. What I have been through with f…

In this paper I explored myself through my history, assessments, feedback, theories, and personal & professional reflection. In the background section, I looked at formative life experiences & developmental theory, my worldview, and why I chose this career path. Using the assessments Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Strong Interest Inventory, I gained a better understanding of my personality stren…

This essay outlines the life of Jared Saunders, from his birth in 1995 to the day this was written in 2026. Born, raised, and educated in Minnesota, he grew up in a stable household with a moderate sized family. Trained to be an educator, he has recently redirected his career path towards becoming a school counselor in the hopes that he can better serve his students. Throughout the process of res…

Abstract These pages very briefly summarize 23 years of my life, my development, and my experiences using an eclectic array of topics, including but not limited to, my past and present social influences (family, friends, romantic relationship), mental and physical health, strengths and weaknesses, cultural influences, and assessments. The intent of this project was to gain a deeper understanding …

This self-analysis articulates the author’s process of developing, across his own lifetime, personal aspects essential to professional practice as a mental health counselor. Explored in this paper are the author’s experiences across diverse areas of development, including: relationships, culture, mental and physical health, career and hobby interests, and personal strengths. The author’s theoreti…

This paper reflects on my own personal experiences that have shaped the person I am both personally and professionally. The purpose of this paper is to showcase the emotional, mental, and physical events I have gone through as well as the work I have done to overcome these challenging events to better serve my future students and clients. I have identified pivotal relationships in my life, therap…

Abstract This paper reflects on my life over the past thirty-six years, with a primary focus on the challenges and adversities that have shaped my personal development. This paper outlines how I navigated difficult and traumatic experiences and the processes through which I was able, and continue, to heal and grow. This reflection tells the story of how various experiences throughout my life have…

This is an ‘Analysis of Self’ portfolio that goes through many key points and people that have shaped the person I am today. This paper will start with going through my background information, which will range from my close relationships, to my favorite activities and hobbies. The second section will go through two different self-assessments and what I learned from completing each of them. The th…