Major: Special Education
Nancy, a fifth grader, has trouble hearing. But thanks to a special headset that her teacher wears, Nancy is able to hear his voice. She raises her hand often during discussions, her eyes bright with curiosity.
Alan, a second grader, avoids the writing lesson, instead talking loudly to his aide. Alan has Asperger's syndrome, which makes it hard for him to socialize. After several weeks, with skilled help from his teacher and instructional assistant, Alan is able to write alongside his classmates.
If you like the idea of helping children with special needs such as these, consider becoming a special education teacher.
This major prepares students to teach children or adults with special learning needs or disabilities. Courses cover topics such as diagnosing learning disabilities and creating plans to meet the special needs of each student.
“I think I'm well suited [for special education] because I have a good sense of humor and great expectations for kids others doubt will succeed. ”
Corine, Ph.D. candidate, special education, University of Kansas
Are You Ready To...?
- Create lesson plans and practice teaching them in front of your peers
- Observe special education teachers in action and report on your observations
- Work as a camp counselor, coach, or tutor with special-needs students to gain experience
- Student teach with the guidance of a certified teacher
It Helps to Be...
Assertive, since part of your role is to make sure your students get the services they need. You'll also benefit from being a team player, a patient person, and someone who celebrates difference.
College Checklist
- Is the program accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and approved by the state's department of education?
- Does the program focus solely on special education, or does it combine special education with another field such as secondary education?
- Does the program encourage you to specialize in a particular age group or disability, or does it provide more-general training?
- How much of your time will be spent observing and student teaching in classrooms?
- Once you graduate, will you be able to teach in states other than the one where the program is located?
Did You Know?
- Besides teaching in the classroom, special education teachers manage learning programs designed especially for each student. These are called individualized education programs, or IEPs.
Course Spotlight
A big part of your learning will be hands-on. You'll observe classrooms and other settings for students with special needs. You'll attend meetings where teachers and other professionals discuss IEPs for students.
As you interact with students, parents, and teachers, you'll be able to polish your communication skills. You may even make contacts that will help you build your career. Before you graduate, you'll student teach for a semester. This is your chance to take charge and practice all you've learned (with guidance from an experienced teacher, of course).
