Training for Special Education Teachers
Special education teachers work with students with physical and mental disabilities who require special care and instruction. While many special education teachers work with students with severe disabilities, the majority work with kids who have mild to moderate disabilities. They use their skills to help these students learn how to cope with their disability, improve their learning experience and develop confidence. Becoming a special education teacher requires certain training apart from the standard teacher education.
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Formal Education
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Special education teachers usually need at least a bachelor's degree to begin work in the field. Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees specifically for special education teachers. These programs typically take four years to complete, though five-year programs are also common. Special education programs include general education courses as well as those specifically designed for special education teachers. Typical coursework includes classes in child and developmental psychology, classroom management, sociology, physical education, developmental disabilities and pedagogical methods. Most students spend the first three years of the program taking classes, while the last year involves supervised teaching experience under the wing of a certified special education teacher.
Licensure
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All special education teachers who work in the public school system must be licensed to work in the United States, and many private schools also require it. Teacher license requirements vary considerably by state. Some states require a general education degree and separate training in learning disabilities and behavioral disorders, while others require a special education-specific degree. Many states also require a master's degree in special education, which can be completed in two years. Teachers may need to pass a state-approved licensing exam depending on the state.
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Skills and Personal Qualities
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Special education teachers are usually extremely patient and caring individuals committed to helping those less fortunate. They work closely with kids who may have serious difficulty learning things that most kids pick up easily, such as reading or basic math. They need to be good listeners with excellent communication skills, both written and spoken. They should be able to explain and teach things in lots of different ways to adjust to a disabled child's specific way of learning. Creativity, organization and passion for the job are important as well.
Career Advancement
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Special education teachers can advance in their career by gaining years of experience and pursing advanced degrees such as a master's or doctorate. With the right credentials, special education teachers can become administrators or supervisors of special education programs or schools.
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