Special education teachers, unlike their general education teacher counterparts, do not concentrate solely on content knowledge. Special education teachers are trained to intervene in the different developmental aspects of a child. Hence, their credentials fall somewhere between a teacher and a psychologist.

Early Intervention

Preschool education teachers work with toddlers to develop their language, motor and social skills. This method is called early intervention. These special educators attempt to fine-tune developmental behaviors so that these same children are ready to be placed in primary schools.

Mild-to-Moderate Disabled

Teachers who work with mildly intellectually disabled (MID) to moderately intellectually disabled (MOID) students attempt to improve the social and emotional graces of each student. For example, special education teachers use campus-based instruction to place students in a real working environment to improve interpersonal relations. The students in this demographic are usually inflicted with autism, Down syndrome and sometimes behavioral disorders.

Learning Disabled

Some special education teachers specialize in general learning disabilities. Teachers modify class materials and test work to help these particular students catch up to their general education counterparts. For example, a student may receive extended time on test. Special educators work one on one and also utilize group work to achieve these goals. Some students, however, exhibit behavioral disorders as well.

Individualized Education Program

Teachers participate in IEP meetings in concert with other staff members to come to an agreement on measurable goals for the child. Other staff members include the parents, general education teachers, paraprofessionals and other specialists. The special education teacher then devises a plan specifically in their curriculum to meet the goals of the child. For example, an IEP goal for a student may be to count money and change by fives.

Inclusion

Special education teachers can pair with a regular education teacher in general education environment. This method is called inclusion. Here, the special education teacher makes suggestions as to how to modify materials and teaching strategies to suit the disabled child.

Source:

Bureau of Labor Statistics: Teachers---Special Education

The Role of Special Teacher in the Special Education

Education of Exceptional Students: Mild to Moderate Disabilities