Bal is an associate professor of special education with the Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education.

His research focuses on the interplay between culture, learning, and behavioral problems through the study of sociohistorical and spatial constructions of deviance across local and global education systems. Bal’s current research projects aim at developing culturally responsive research methodologies and intervention models. In particular, he has developed the Culturally Responsive Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (CRPBIS) framework and Learning Lab methodology, an equity-oriented systemic transformation model that he is helping implement in schools internationally.

AERA will honor all of its awards for excellence in education research recipients at the Awards Ceremony and Celebration, April 7, at the AERA Annual Meeting in Toronto, Canada.

“This year’s award winners exemplify commitment to the study and practice of education,” said AERA Executive Director Felice J. Levine. “We are proud to honor their outstanding scholarship and service to the field.”

The Committee on Scholars of Color in Education Awards are intended to recognize scholars at different stages in their careers who have made significant contributions to the understanding of issues that disproportionately affect minority populations. These also honor minority scholars who have made a significant contribution to education research and development.

The Scholars of Color Early Career Contribution Award is presented to a scholar who is within the first decade of his or her career after receipt of a doctoral degree.

In addition to Bal, UW–Madison alumna Patricia Edwards is receiving the Scholars of Color Distinguished Career Contribution Award. Edwards, of Michigan State University, earned her Ph.D. from the School of Education’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction in 1979.

The American Educational Research Association (AERA) is the largest national interdisciplinary research association devoted to the scientific study of education and learning. Founded in 1916, AERA advances knowledge about education, encourages scholarly inquiry related to education, and promotes the use of research to improve education and serve the public good.