In its ongoing pursuit of excellence in scientific research and community service, the University of Jordan has announced the launch of a specialized research group titled "Enhancing Competencies in Counseling and Special Education". This initiative, spearheaded by the School of Educational Sciences and supported by a network of local and international researchers, aims to elevate professional practices in psychological counseling and special education through evidence-based, practical solutions.
The group seeks to enhance the competencies of specialists and teachers working in the fields of counseling and special education by developing advanced training programs, designing comprehensive assessment tools, and exploring the professional and educational challenges faced by both in-service practitioners and pre-service students. The group also aims to provide innovative solutions grounded in the latest scientific research and educational technology applications, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and digital platforms.
Based at the School of Educational Sciences at the University of Jordan—one of the region's leading institutions for preparing educators and educational and psychological specialists—the research group benefits from a stimulating academic environment and a faculty with advanced research vision. This makes it an ideal incubator for pioneering research projects focused on improving the quality of education and serving individuals with special needs.
The research group includes a distinguished team of academics and researchers from diverse disciplines, united by a shared commitment to advancing the professional, educational, and psychological standards of field practitioners. Members from the School of Educational Sciences at the University of Jordan include:
Dr. Amal Hasan Ibrahim,
Dr. Mais Al-Nasaa,
Dr. Fatima Al-Adwan,
Dr. Omar Ismail Al-Ourani,
and Dr. Aseel Al-Ajlouni.
International contributors include:
Dr. Zachary Pietrantoni from Florida International University (USA),
and Dr. Seda Karayazi Ozsayin from Adiyaman University (Turkey).
Notable field professionals such as Dr. Hussein Al-Wreikat and Mr. Yaman Shadid also contribute to the group.
This diverse academic team reflects the group's commitment to offering a multidisciplinary perspective that bridges academic expertise, practical experience, and global insight—thereby enhancing its capacity to design comprehensive and effective interventions.
The group adopts a mixed-methods research approach that combines quantitative and qualitative methodologies to provide a holistic analysis of field realities. It aims to offer impactful policy recommendations in educational, psychological, and health-related sectors. The group is also working to establish strategic partnerships with national entities, such as the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, and civil society organizations, to develop a sustainable and integrated professional intervention system.
Recognizing the crucial role of human factors in the success of educational and counseling processes, the group places a special emphasis on the mental health and professional well-being of field practitioners. This includes studying stressors and challenges faced by educators and specialists and designing supportive strategies to enhance their adaptability and sustain effective professional performance.
This initiative aligns with the University of Jordan's commitment to aligning its research projects with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—particularly in areas related to quality education, good health and well-being, decent work, and equality. It also reinforces the university's role as a leading institution in empowering marginalized populations, promoting educational and psychological justice, and developing the capacities of professionals in education and support services.
The establishment of the “Enhancing Competencies in Counseling and Special Education" research group is not merely a passing academic activity—it represents a high-impact model of the University of Jordan and the School of Educational Sciences' commitment to research excellence and meaningful social contribution. It is expected that this group will help bring about a transformative shift in the quality of teacher and counselor preparation and the delivery of more inclusive and effective educational and psychological services.