A special education degree trains you for some of the most challenging
and rewarding teaching jobs out there. You could work with children with disabilities
or specialize in the needs of gifted children.
The shortage of special education teachers is so severe that many
states offer alternative and emergency licensure to fill the gap, according
to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH).
Normally, says the OOH, all states require special education teachers
to earn a bachelor's degree and complete an approved teacher preparation program.
Some states also require a master's degree in special education, which involves
at least one year of additional course work and requires a specialization.
Requirements for alternative licensure may be less stringent. College
grads can start teaching with a provisional license. Regular licensure is
then obtained after teaching under supervision for one to two years while
taking education courses.
"People who seek to be special education teachers must be thoughtful,
compassionate problem-solvers and lifelong learners," says Kathleen Spencer
Cooter, who teaches future special education teachers at Texas Christian University.
"A thorough knowledge and understanding of human development is needed,
as well as strong interpersonal and communication skills."
Special education also includes gifted students. "The teacher of gifted
children must also have an incredible sense of humor and flexibility. The
students may well have the intellectual ability to move ahead of the teacher
in topics," says Spencer Cooter.
"The teacher must have the self-confidence to deal with a precocious child
as well as the ability to skillfully guide such a learner toward productive
and unique learnings," she adds.
What should you take in high school? "Students should take classes which
teach them basic psychology, human or child development and classes which
enhance their writing and speaking communication skills," Spencer advises.
Extracurricular activities can also help you prepare. "It is a wonderful
experience for everyone involved if students volunteer to work with individuals
with special needs," says special education professor Janet Jamieson.
"Volunteer activities such as helping out in day cares or other settings
where people with special needs are integrated are great experiences, and
are helpful in letting students know if they really are interested in this
kind of work. I would also highly recommend sign language courses -- and they're
fun, too!" Jamieson says.
There are all the usual expenses of tuition and books. You may also choose
to pay to attend special conferences.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see Special
Education Teachers
Personalized Learning for Students with Disabilities
Review the latest research
My Child's Special Needs
Links to resources
Types of Learning Disabilities
Learn more about the types of challenges students face