Saturday, 8 October 2011

Reach Out With A Master Degree In Special Education

By Michelle Conner


Are you the kind of person who accepts the differences in others? Are you organized, patient, and able to understand and motivate? If you answered yes to these questions then you have exactly what it takes to be a special education teacher.

Special education teachers work with children and youths with varied disabilities and barriers to learning, including severe cognitive, emotional, and/or physical challenges. The majority, however, work with children that have mild to moderate disabilities and most instruct at the preschool, elementary, middle and secondary school level. Schools are not the only venue in which you will find a special education teacher as there are many non-profit organizations specializing in services for the disabled who benefit from the expertise of special education teachers. Understand more about online schools for masters in special education and get into your desired profession.

The teaching process usually begins with the special education teacher developing an IEP (Individualized Education Program) for each student. Based on the individualized needs identified by the special education teacher, a teaching methodology is established and usually includes one-on-one instruction as well as group work. When needed, the teacher will recommend specific accommodations for students who require them.

Special education teachers also have the option of working outside of the classroom by providing services to infants and pre-schoolers in their familiar surroundings. These special services conducted with parents help with the social development, language, and cognitive skills by using play time as a medium. One of the most interesting progressions in the field today is the use of interactive software and synthesized speech devices. Take advantage of online certificate programs to achieve success.

There are many rewards in teaching special education although there are times that it can be physically draining due to the demands. Much of the stress comes from the heavy workloads and the continuous documentation that follows each child. Though it is not common practice, there is always the threat of law suits against the school levied by parents unhappy with the progress of their children.

Finding an accredited school at which to earn your degree should be an easy task as there are many colleges and universities with excellent special education curricula. At any one of these fine schools you can earn not only your undergraduate degree but a masters or doctorate degree as well. Once you have completed your education you will be required to complete specialized training and acquire a license as most States demand it.

Employment in the field of special education is on the rise due in part to the increased student need and the low numbers of qualified candidates. Also opening the employment flood gates is the alarming numbers of diagnosed autism cases, constituting the need for specialization. As teachers sometimes struggle to find permanent jobs after certification, special education teachers have many more options from which to choose.




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