Student Teaching in Special Education

Catalog description

The student-teaching experience involves placement in a special education setting under the supervision of a certified teacher. Placements will encompass the K-21 age range, experiencing two separate placements, and including a range of level of disability. Candidates will capitalize on skills learned in earlier courses to conduct formal, informal and functional assessments. Based on this information, they will generate and implement lesson plans, establishing an effective learning climate for their students. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate the ability to collaborate with colleagues, para-educators (candidates should expect a supervisory role as well), other professionals within the school and community, and families to meet students' academic, social and life skill needs. In short, the candidate will learn to fill all roles and major functions expected of the special educator, with the benefit of supervision.