Education Specialist Preliminary Teaching Credential: Extensive Support Needs
Program Overview
The Education Specialist Preliminary Teaching Credential: Extensive Support Needs program at San José State University prepares candidates to teach students with disabilities in various settings. The program combines coursework, practical experiences, and research to develop candidates' knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary for effective teaching. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as special education teachers in public and private schools, charter schools, and other settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Education Specialist Preliminary Teaching Credential: Extensive Support Needs program, offered by the Department of Special Education at San José State University, prepares candidates to provide instruction and special education support to students in various educational settings, including transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, grades 1-12 through age 22, and classes organized primarily for adults with extensive support needs related to one or more of the following disabilities: autism, deafblindness, emotional disturbance, intellectual disability, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, specific learning disability, and traumatic brain injury.
Objectives:
The program's objectives are to:
- Prepare candidates to meet Teacher Performance Expectations set forth by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
- Provide candidates with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to effectively teach students with extensive support needs.
- Foster a collaborative and inclusive learning environment that respects and values diversity.
Program Description:
The program combines theoretical coursework, practical experiences, and research to prepare candidates for the challenges of teaching students with extensive support needs. Candidates will develop a deep understanding of the characteristics, needs, and best practices for working with students with disabilities. They will also receive extensive field experience, working directly with students in various educational settings.
Outline:
Core Courses (24 units):
- EDSE 102 - Introduction to Language Development and Disability (3 units)
- EDSE 192B - All Learners: An Introduction to Disabilities (1 unit)
- EDSE 192C - Inclusive Strategies for Educating Students with Disabilities (1 unit)
- EDSE 192D - Introduction to Special Education Policy and Law (1 unit)
- EDSE 218D - Teaching Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (3 units)
- EDSE 224 - Methods for Emergent Bilinguals with Disabilities (1-3 units)
- EDSE 228A - Topics in Collaboration and Transition (3 units)
- EDSE 234 - Early Field Experiences in Special Education (1-3 units)
- EDSE 241 - Applying Assistive & Instructional Technology (3 units)
- EDSE 279 - Positive Behavior Support (3 units)
Specialization (18 units):
- EDEL 108D - Curriculum: Mathematics (3 units)
- EDSE 154 - Advanced Fieldwork in ESN and ECSE (6 units)
- EDSE 213A - Methods for Students with Extensive Support Needs (3 units)
- EDSE 215 - Assessing Students with Disabilities (3 units)
- EDSE 216A - Literacy Instruction: Students with Disabilities (3 units)
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate candidate learning, including:
- Written assignments and exams
- Oral presentations
- Teaching demonstrations
- Portfolio development
- Field experience evaluations
Assessment Criteria:
Candidates are assessed on their:
- Knowledge of disability-related content
- Skills in teaching students with disabilities
- Ability to develop and implement effective lesson plans
- Ability to collaborate with other professionals and parents
- Professional and ethical conduct
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Role-playing
- Simulations
- Hands-on activities
- Field experiences
Faculty:
The program's faculty are experienced special educators who are actively engaged in research and practice. They are committed to providing candidates with a high-quality learning experience.
Unique Approaches:
The program features several unique approaches, including:
- An emphasis on collaboration and teamwork
- A focus on evidence-based practices
- A commitment to social justice and equity
- A strong field experience component
Careers:
Career Paths:
Graduates of the program may pursue careers as special education teachers in a variety of settings, including:
- Public schools
- Private schools
- Charter schools
- Special education centers
- Non-profit organizations
Job Opportunities:
Graduates are well-prepared for employment in various roles within the field of special education, including:
- Special education teacher
- Resource specialist
- Special education coordinator
- Case manager
Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have a high success rate in obtaining teaching positions and making a difference in the lives of students with disabilities.
