The Role of an Education Assistant

Providing research, anecdotes, and practical insights from leading scholars and professionals, The Role of an Education Assistant acts as a guide for navigating the complexities of the education assistant role, from collaborating with teachers and students in lesson planning to creating inclusive learning environments.

This updated second edition includes expanded content across all chapters and new content highlighting diverse perspectives, Indigeneity, gender, and sexuality. In addition, there are new "Actions in the Field" segments at the end of each section which outline strategies and activities for field practice and professional development.

Featuring topical scholarship, an emphatically Canadian perspective, discussion questions, and timely case studies, this is a critical text for college and university students in education studies, education assistant programs, and professionals currently working in the field.

Mary Harber BA, BSW, MSW, has been a social worker and educator for the past 30 years, supporting individuals, families, and communities in the areas of substance use and prevention, trauma support, and creative intervention methods in practice. She has worked in the field of disabilities with a focus on healthy sexuality, social competence, and diverse learning needs. She teaches at Camosun College in Victoria, British Columbia, and believes in the capacity of innovation and creativity to facilitate change.

Asha Rao, MEd, DVATI, has taught for over 20 years in elementary to post-secondary schools, locally and internationally. Her work is focused on inclusive education, mental health and wellness and is grounded in social justice principles. She is currently program lead and faculty in the Education Assistant and Community Support Program at Camosun College, Victoria, B.C. She believes in collaborating to create engaging, inclusive, and accessible learning environments. She encourages analysis, critical thinking, and multiple means of representation and expression with students. Her current work explores trauma-informed expressive arts and fostering creativity and imagination in her work, in the classroom, and in the field.