| The findings of this qualitative phenomenological study guided by the modified van Kaam method of analysis confirmed a relationship between training and efficacy. The study explored the perceptions and lived experiences of 20 special education paraeducators in Maryland. Collected data were analyzed using NVivo 8.0 software to identify themes regarding training and efficacy resulting in the identification of a perceived need for relevant training addressing the special education paraeducators' changing roles and responsibilities. Collective and integrated themes revealed the paraeducators' perception of two pertinent and interrelated forms of efficacy, organizational efficacy, and self-efficacy. Synthesis of the three established themes: (a) perceptions of role and responsibilities for efficacy development, (b) perceptions of organizational structure influencing efficacy, and (c) perceptions of relational structures influencing efficacy contributed to a comprehensive understanding of organizational efficacy development. The analytical synthesis of six established themes: (a) perceptions of job preparedness, (b) training topics influencing efficacy, (c) training methodology influencing efficacy, (d) training delivery models influencing efficacy, (e) training factors influencing efficacy, and (f) training factors inhibiting efficacy revealed a deeper understanding of self-efficacy development. Study recommendations include training strategies to optimize the utilization of special education paraeducators in order to enhance the educational programming for students with special needs. |
