EDUCATION OF THE SPEECH IMPAIRED

Educating students/children/adolescents with special needs has become an integral part of our public and private educational system.  Exact titles and definitions of the process usually depend on a combination of  school, district, county, state, and federal guidelines in addition to teacher/administrator input.

Students interested in special needs education should display creativity, analysis, positive reinforcement and patience as well as exhibit success in all academic areas and motivational experiences.  In addition to a normal college preparatory program, helpful high school courses include psychology, early childhood development, English, and the social sciences.

Most special education programs require supplementary general education (English, social sciences, sciences, humanities, etc.) and education courses.  Typical special education courses include assessment and evaluation, methods and materials, deaf literature, teaching of reading, learning disabilities: characteristics and methods, and severe disabilities: instruction and planning.

Job placement requirements vary depending on the area of specialization.  Most jobs require a college degree and student teaching experience.  Advanced degrees in this field are usually preferred.

