Tyra Hulstein, a senior elementary education student from Sioux Center, Iowa, received the Student Research Award at the NASUP annual conference in New Orleans, LA.
Tyra Hulstein, a senior elementary education student from Sioux Center, Iowa, received the Student Research Award at the NASUP annual conference in New Orleans, LA.
The Student Research Award recognizes outstanding student research presentations at the NASUP Annual Conference. To be eligible, candidates must be student members of NASUP, present their research at the conference, and submit their PowerPoint presentation by the deadline. The presentation is evaluated on its clarity, organization, and effectiveness, as well as responses to audience questions. The award is announced at the conference’s awards ceremony, and winners are invited to share advice with future applicants.
Hulstein presented her findings from her inquiry project from her fall student teaching placement. Her research explored if metacognition and fidget toys impact focus and class participation in a 2nd-grade student diagnosed with ASD and ADHD, and if so, how? By collaborating with her mentor teacher, the student, and his family, Hulstein was able to identify significant progress in the student’s focus and class participation when utilizing metacognitive strategies, fidget toys, and a strong homeschool partnership.
"Tyra’s research highlights clear connections between the craft of teaching and the restorative work we are called to do as disciples of Christ," says Dr. Mary Beth Pollema, associate professor of education at Dordt. "She has a servant’s heart and truly seeks to reach all students, especially those who face extraordinary learning challenges."
“Receiving this award is truly an honor,” says Hulstein. “It is a testament to the amazing program I have the privilege of being a part of. I am especially grateful to be part of Dordt's Professional Development School (PDS) program, which allowed me to begin my year-long student teaching placement in August. This opportunity gave me the chance to lean into my inquiry project and truly get to know each of my students from the start of the school year.”
“Throughout the teacher preparation program at Dordt, we strive to equip teacher candidates with the knowledge and skills needed to dismantle any barriers that may inhibit student access to high quality instruction and learning," adds Pollema. "We celebrate Tyra’s recognition at this national conference because she was able to share her research findings with teaching practitioners from all over the country and in so doing, serve the broader field of education."
About Dordt University
As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.
Dordt University Men's Basketball Coach Brian Van Haaften is the recipient of 2025 Don Meyer National Coach of the Year award, which is presented annually to the top head coach in NAIA college basketball.
Dr. John Olthoff, professor of agriculture at Dordt University, will retire at the end of the 2024-2025 academic year.
Related Events