Research

Special Gifts Theatre Clinical Research

SGT is thrilled to be partnered with a team of experienced research professionals from the University of Illinois (UIC) Department of Disability and Human Development to create qualitative and quantitative paradigms of the SGT programs. Since 2005, we have been conducting formal research on how we positively impact students during the time they are involved in our program so our successful techniques can be duplicated in clinical and artistic settings. An article based on this research has been submitted for publication by several professional journals. The study results will also be used to develop the best educational practices for students with special needs.

Behaviors and Abilities under Investigation

Self-esteem and self confidence
Social Skills (Interaction/cooperation with peers and authority figures)
Communication Skills
Public Speaking Skills
Gross Motor/Coordination skills

Results

The data results clearly indicated that SGT programming met or exceeded the expectation of the stakeholders involved in the program, including parents, students with special needs and peer mentors. The data indicated a positive increase in behavior and skill development for the students with special needs and their peer mentors after participating in our program. Most importantly, it was noted that these skills were transferring to environments outside of SGT including school, home and social environments. It was also noted that the children were developing broader relationships with other students and their peer mentors.

Continuing Research

The first phase of research led to further research that included studying the effects of SGT on our new population of pre-primary children ages 3-6 years old with developmental delays (Pilot program initiated 2007). Early results have indicated significant increase in attention, pre-literacy skills, language and socialization skills. The researchers from UIC are planning on publishing these results as well.
In 2007, SGT began a new form of evaluation with the UIC researchers, which included independent trained observation and videotape coding of specific children participating in SGT (it is a longitudinal study over a 4 year period).
SGT believes that incorporating surveys, focus groups, personal interviews, case reviews and clinical observations provides us with the most significant outcomes measurements.

Anecdotal Evidence Provided in Open-Ended Survey Responses

“My students who have participated in SGT have shown an increase in self-esteem. They are more open and outgoing towards others and are slowly starting to take chances.”
– Private School Teacher

“The program was absolutely incredible. It was an experience of a lifetime. I saw things in my son that I didn’t even know was there.”
– Parent of SGT student

“The SGT staff is a caring group. They are always taking the child’s abilities and stretching them. Everyone who sees the shows can see what wonders are going on at SGT.”
– Audience member

“Thank you for letting me share your dream. It is a privilege to be a part of this amazing experience.”
– SGT teacher