stidents with disability

Importance of Special Education Course

  • Course Number: Education 2201 is required for all teachers in Illinois.

    • Necessary for all educators, regardless of subject matter (e.g., music, art, PE).

    • If transferred to another institution (e.g., Elmhurst, Lewis, Illinois State), the course is still recognized.

Focus on Teaching Students with Exceptional Needs

  • The course provides foundational knowledge on special education.

    • While comprehensive, it covers only the basics of teaching special education.

    • Involves a semester-long look at various disabilities under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).

    • Students will learn about 13 different disabilities, each requiring attention.

    • Time constraints limit in-depth coverage; often only a week is spent on each disability.

Rationale for All Teachers to Learn Special Education

  • All educators will encounter students with special needs in their classrooms.

    • Even non-special ed instructors may have students with 504 Plans or undiagnosed conditions.

    • Best teaching practices apply to support diverse learners.

    • Importance of awareness regarding students with IEPs (Individualized Education Program), as these accommodations impact all educational settings.

Role of Support in Classrooms

  • Classes like music, art, and PE will have students with special needs, sometimes accompanied by paraprofessionals.

    • Educators need baseline knowledge to effectively include all students.

Understanding Special Education Terminology

  • Acronyms play a significant role in education. Knowing their meanings is crucial for effective communication.

    • BIP: Behavior Intervention Plan—used to address behavioral issues in students.

  • SMART Goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound.

    • Important for setting educational goals in special education contexts.

Legal Framework and Responsibilities

  • IDEA requires that all students with disabilities receive free and appropriate public education (FAPE).

    • IEPs and 504 Plans are legally binding documents that must be adhered to by teachers.

    • Failure to comply with these mandates may result in legal repercussions for educators.

IEP Team Components and Meeting Procedures

  • Annual meetings are conducted to review student progress and goals, involving:

    • Parents

    • Special educators

    • Regular educators

  • Transition plans must start at age 16, preparing students for post-secondary life.

Understanding Accommodations vs. Modifications

  • Accommodations: Changes in how a student accesses content (e.g., extended time, preferential seating).

  • Modifications: Changes to the actual content or learning goal (e.g., alternative reading materials).

  • Both serve distinct yet equally important roles in special education settings.

Highlights of the Educational Legislation Affecting Special Education

  • Key Laws discussed:

    • Public Law 94-142: foundational special education law.

    • No Child Left Behind: emphasizes accountability and educational standards.

    • Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act: enhances focus on equity and accountability.

    • Every Student Succeeds Act: allows states more control over education but maintains requirements for special education.

Teaching Strategies and Classroom Best Practices

  • Differentiated Instruction: Tailored approaches to meet diverse learning needs.

    • Breakdown lessons into manageable tasks and utilize formative assessments.

    • Utilize technology and visual aids to enhance learning experiences.

Classroom Management for Special Education

  • Importance of creating a supportive and organized environment:

    • Minimize distractions.

    • Establish clear expectations for behavior and learning.

    • Utilize assistive technology to support students' learning and independence.

Family and Community Engagement

  • Building relationships with families of students with special needs is crucial:

    • Create a safe and supportive environment.

    • Educators must inform parents of their rights and advocate for student needs.

Reflection and Future Steps

  • Keep in mind that special education is complex and requires continuous learning and adaptation.

  • Consider pursuing minors or endorsements in special education for increased marketability in the teaching field.