Sandy Ayala
Professor
Contact
707-664-2972
ayalas@sonoma.edu
Office
Stevenson 2016Office Hours
I am thrilled to be part of such a dynamic school of education. I came here from the University of California Riverside where I earned my doctorate in special education with an emphasis in technology. My dissertation research looked at the effects of video self modeling on the decoding skills of students at risk for reading disabilities. I spent four years as the Editorial Assistant for the Journal of Learning Disabilities where I expanded my interests in the way universal design for learning can positively impact students with learning disabilities. I have been a teacher for over 20 years including working as a speech pathologist in New York and Southern California. My latest interest is in the use of the iPad in the classroom as a progressive tool for communication, synthesis, expression and engagement.
Biography
- Sonoma State University 2011 – Present
- UC Riverside 2006-2011 – Doctoral Fellow; Adjunct Faculty
- San Bernardino County Office of Education 1999 – 2006 Special Education Teacher
- Los Angeles County Office of Education 1997 - 1999 Special Education Teacher / Speech Therapist
- Girl Scouts of the USA, NY – National Outdoor Program Director 1995- 1997
- Program Coordinator – Canal Community Alliance, San Rafael 1991-1993
- Hayward Unified School District – Teacher, Softball Coach 1989 – 1991
- University Northern Colorado – Graduate Teaching Assistant 1988-1989
- Board of Cooperative Educational Services, NY Speech Pathologist – 1985-1987
Education
- PhD - University California Riverside – Special Education 2010
- MA /Credential - CSU San Bernardino – Special Education 2003
- MA - University of Northern Colorado - Outdoor Recreation Admin. 1989
- BS - State University New York Geneseo – Speech Pathology and Audiology 1985
Academic Interests
- Video Self Modeling
- Technology Integration
- iPads in the classroom
- Virtual Instruction
- Universal Design for Learning
- Assistive Technology and AAC
Concentrations
- Special Education
- Instructional / Assistive Technology
- Credential Courses (Language, Communication, Instruction, Assessment)
- Master Level Courses (Research, Reflective Practices)