Emily Tarconish

Emily Tarconish is a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, College of Education. She also holds a joint appointment in the Department of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership.

Dr. Tarconish's research focuses on disability services in higher education, accessibility, and support for students with disabilities, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Her work examines:

• Universal Design for Learning in postsecondary settings
• Transition experiences of students with disabilities to college
• Support services for twice-exceptional students (gifted students with disabilities)
• Disability documentation requirements and policies
• Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students with disabilities

Her research demonstrates a strong commitment to creating more inclusive educational environments that recognize and support the diverse needs of students with disabilities. She has published extensively on topics related to disability services, accessibility, and educational equity in higher education.

Dr. Tarconish has examined various aspects of disability services, including:

• The effectiveness of disability service offices during pandemic conditions
• Students' perceptions of different grading systems
• Supports for physics learners with disabilities
• Training for college faculty on disability awareness and inclusive teaching

She teaches courses related to special education, including SPED 405: General Educator's Role in Special Education, SPED 444: Career Development and Transition, SPED 517: Disability Issues in Special Education, and others that focus on preparing educators to work with students with diverse abilities.