Dr. Aryn Kruse

Assistant Professor of Education

Doctorate (PhD) Human Development & Family Studies Iowa State University
Master (M.Ed) Curriculum & Instruction with Special Education emphasis Iowa State University
Bachelor (B.S.) Elementary Education & Special Education Iowa State University

Zimmerman 319

Dr. Kruse will be teaching courses in the area of Special Education and the Elementary Education core. She has 10 years of public school experience teaching in Special Education and inclusive elementary settings and has worked as a parent-peer advocate and special education consultant throughout the state of Iowa.

Dr. Kruse’s research has been focused on partnerships between families with children with disabilities and the social support systems (educational programs and systems, support service programs) within which they are embedded. She is interested in supporting inclusive learning strategies and environments that meet the needs of neurodiverse classrooms.

Dr. Kruse uses experiential and social learning strategies in the classroom. She believes students learn by doing and reflecting continuously. She has been trained in Problem-Based Learning and uses it throughout her courses. She has enjoyed teaching students how to navigate education policy and advocate to legislators regarding special education issues and presenting alongside her students at professional conferences. Her favorite quote is: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead

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