Samira Bashiru

Samira Bashiru is a doctoral candidate in Special Education at Purdue University, with a research focus on inclusive education, early childhood development, and creativity in children with and without disabilities. She brings over a decade of experience as an educator, university instructor, and program coordinator in both the U.S. and Canada. Samira’s scholarly work addresses culturally responsive teaching, assistive technology, and equitable practices for English learners with disabilities. She is a Holmes Scholar, recipient of multiple research awards, and an active presenter at national and international conferences. Passionate about advocacy and family engagement, Samira also serves as Family Representative on the Executive Board of the Indiana Division for Early Childhood.

+ Education

+ Career Experience

+ Awards & Honors

+ Professional Affiliations/Memberships

My current research centers on examining creativity in Kindergarten through second grade children with and without disabilities. Through this work, I aim to deepen understanding of how young learners express creative thinking and how disability status may influence creative development in early childhood. My dissertation explores the intersections of creativity, inclusion, and early learning, with the goal of informing classroom practices that nurture the strengths of all students. This research aligns with my broader interests in inclusive education, culturally responsive pedagogy, and the design of equitable learning environments that recognize and support diverse expressions of ability and potential.

+ Selected Publications

• EDPS 46100 – Student Teaching
• EDPS 26501 – The Inclusive Classroom
• EDPS 20001 – Special Populations Seminar: Focus on Students with Disabilities and Differentiation Approaches
• EDPS 49800 - Supervised Student Teaching

Examining Creativity in Kindergarten Through Second Grade Children With and Without Disabilities