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Jose Palma
Doctoral Candidate, Research Investigator, and Consultant
Professional Background
Jose Palma is an accomplished Doctoral candidate specializing in Quantitative Methods in Education at the University of Minnesota. His expertise lies in the intricate realms of psychometric properties, survey design, bilingual and diverse population assessments, and social-emotional learning, particularly within higher education contexts. Jose's impressive journey showcases not only his dedication to educational methodologies but also his commitment to enhancing assessment practices that support diverse learning populations.
Throughout his academic and professional career, Jose has had valuable consulting experiences with organizations and institutions including Pearson VUE, the Minnesota Department of Education, FISDAP, and USAID-Guatemala. These collaborations have honed his skills in educational assessment and provided him with a broad perspective on the needs and nuances of various educational environments.
Jose's research and practice reflect a robust understanding of how effective evaluation methods can enhance educational outcomes, especially for underrepresented and bilingual learners. His significant contributions to the field of educational assessment make him a thought leader in developing fair and equitable testing practices that support score interpretation and use in educational settings.
Education and Achievements
Jose’s educational background is impressive. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Minnesota, where he laid the groundwork for his keen interest in educational assessment and research methods. His early academic pursuits included an Associate of Arts in General Studies from Minnesota West Community and Technical College, which provided him with a well-rounded educational foundation.
Now pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Assessment, Testing, and Measurement at the University of Minnesota, Jose is deepening his knowledge in areas critical to the next generation of educational assessments. His doctoral research aims to enhance the understanding of test design and implementation, ensuring that assessments are not only rigorous but also accessible to all students.
Jose has also served in various roles throughout his educational journey, contributing to the advancement of educational research and assessment practices. He has been a Research Investigator at the Minnesota Youth Development and Research Group, where he worked on projects that focus on youth development in educational contexts. Additionally, as a Graduate Administrative Fellow for the Graduate School and Graduate Research Assistant in multiple departments within the University of Minnesota, Jose has developed intricate skills in research methodology, data analysis, and project management.
Some of his notable achievements include co-founding JSK Analytics, a consultancy focused on providing innovative assessment solutions, and serving as a Consultant for Measurement and Assessment Solutions, LLC, where he applied his knowledge to improve testing and measurement approaches in educational settings.
Contributions and Impact
Jose Palma is not only a dedicated scholar but also an impactful contributor to various educational communities. His extensive experience as a Graduate Research Assistant across multiple institutions, including the Institute on Community Integration and the Department of Educational Psychology, illustrates his commitment to enhancing educational practices through rigorous research and evidence-based methodologies.
His role as a Research Intern at the Research, Evaluation and Assessment office at Saint Paul Public Schools highlights his dedication to practical applications of educational theories, working directly to improve student assessment strategies in real-world educational settings. Furthermore, his involvement as an ELL Educator Assistant with AGAPE reflects his passion for working with bilingual and diverse populations, providing tailored support to learners from various backgrounds.
Jose has also exhibited leadership capabilities by participating in the AmeriCorps program, where he engaged in community service and educational initiatives, solidifying his commitment to social betterment through educational equity. His experience as a Sales Supervisor and Associate at Brooks Brothers, though outside of education, adds a unique perspective to his profile, offering insight into customer service and management skills applicable in educational consulting.
Future Endeavors
Looking ahead, Jose Palma aims to further leverage his extensive background in educational assessment, psychometrics, and multicultural education to influence policy and practice at both national and international levels. His experience with organizations such as USAID-Guatemala positions him to contribute to global initiatives aimed at enhancing educational measurement and support systems.
Through his continuous research efforts and consulting experiences, Jose aspires to publish impactful studies that advocate for educational fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that assessments accommodate all learners effectively. As he approaches the completion of his doctoral studies, the educational community can anticipate innovative contributions from Jose that bridge statistical analysis and practical application in educational contexts, enhancing the teaching and learning experience worldwide.