The Master of Education: Teaching - Special Education program is designed for teachers who wish to further their studies by achieving an advanced degree with a focus in working with students with special needs. The program provides a strong, research-based background in professional teaching practices and promotes the development of teachers who are knowledgeable of the foundations and theoretical basis for special education, the developmental characteristics of special needs learners, and the instructional practices that best serve them. The coursework reflects standards advocated by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), and the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC.) The program includes a total of 36 semester hours and is comprised of 12 online courses with experiential PK-12 fieldwork components, including a capstone course in school-based action research conducted on a school or other approved professional site. This West Virginia state-approved program, while allowing for a master’s level credential, does not lead to certification in Special Education. Program Objectives The Master of Education: Teaching - Special Education program seeks the following specific learning outcomes of its graduates: - Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will understand the foundations of special education including the philosophy, history, legislation, and theory that continue to influence professional practice in the field
- Use research, experience, and professional judgment to collaborate and work with others in planning implementation, and evaluation of effective instruction and services for students with disabilities
- Have an advanced understanding of the developmental characteristics, culture, and background of special needs learners and how these differences influence the learning condition
- Work with school personnel to foster effective, inclusive learning environments as both advisors and co-instructors in order to maximize academic and social interaction for special needs learners
- Use knowledge of assessment and diagnosis, instructional planning, and instructional strategies to design/implement/evaluate individualized instructional programs for special needs learners
- Understand the role of language development and culture in the learning process and use research based practices and strategies to modify curriculum, learning activities, and school environments to accommodate specific needs of learners
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