Dr. Andrew Wiley headshot, Kent State University special education

Dr. Andrew Wiley

Professor, College of Education, Health and Human Services, Kent State University

Dr. Wiley is a Professor of Special Education at Kent State University. His work focuses on special education policy, equity in identification and services, and supporting educators in using research-based academic and behavioral interventions.

Before joining Kent State, Dr. Wiley spent 12 years teaching in public schools, primarily working with students with emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, autism, and moderate to severe needs. His experience as a crisis resource teacher and behavior specialist continues to inform his commitment to strengthening special education practice and supporting those who teach diverse learners.

More from Dr. Cenker
In special education, behavior is rarely random. More often, it is a form of communication — a student’s way of expressing unmet needs, frustration, sensory overload, anxiety, or a lack of skills to navigate a situation. When educators view behavior through this lens, the focus shifts from “How do we stop this?” to “What is this student trying to tell us?”
Technology has transformed what is possible in special education classrooms. For many students with disabilities, technology is not just a convenience — it is a critical means of communication, instruction, and independence. When thoughtfully implemented, assistive and instructional technologies can remove barriers, amplify student voice, and create more inclusive learning environments.
Special education is a complex and highly individualized field that serves students across a wide range of ages, abilities, and learning needs. While a master’s degree in special education provides a strong foundation in theory, assessment, instructional strategies, and legal/ethical considerations, many educators choose to further refine their expertise in specific areas of practice. As student needs become more diverse and schools place greater emphasis on inclusive, individualized supports, specialization has become increasingly valuable.
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