In today’s educational landscape, the need for Special Education Needs (SEN) teachers has increased tenfold. The demand for SEN teachers is surging since the implementation of NEP 2020, which emphasises inclusive education. In this blog, we will explore the needs of special education and how teachers can acquire the necessary skills through special needs courses online. 

What is a Special Educator’s Qualification?

A special educator’s qualification gives the teacher the knowledge to work with students who have special educational needs. The curriculum of these qualifications is structured in such a way that it helps to train educators to understand the various types of learning disabilities and how to teach all types of neurodiverse learners.

Aspiring special educators can enroll in any of the diploma or certificate programs that are provided by the Atheneum Global online teacher training program, which offers flexible, accessible options for educators to specialise in this field.

Why is Special Education So In Demand?

One of the primary reasons why there has been a rise in demand for a Special Education certificate is the educational policy of India, which encourages inclusive education. To make this policy a success, schools need to put the idea into action, and it will only be possible to execute this when teachers are trained and understand the needs of special education, along with how to adapt lessons to cater to students of diverse needs.

Moreover, awareness about different types of special education needs is increasing among parents and educators. Conditions such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia are now better understood by many parents and teachers. This is helping in early intervention for children diagnosed with the same. 

Why should Teachers Understand Special Needs?

Teachers must understand the special needs of children, even if they do not specifically work with special education needs. Understanding the types of special education needs helps teachers to : 

• Recognise early signs of learning difficulties.
• Create a supportive classroom environment.
• Work collaboratively with specialists and parents of neurodivergent children.
• Increase their professional skills and employability.
  
  

Types of Special Education Needs

There are multiple types of special education needs, and each group of students requires a different approach. These include:

1. Physical Disabilities: Students who need physical assistance or adaptive equipment for being differently abled physically.
2. Sensory Impairments: Means hearing and vision impairments in students that can impact learning.
3. Intellectual Impairments: When cognitive functioning is affected in children, it affects their learning speed.
4. Behavioural and Neurodevelopmental Disorders: ADHD and similar conditions that influence behaviour and attention.
5. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Affects social interaction, communication, and behaviour.
6. Speech and Language Impairment: Delays in communication skills.
7. Specific Learning Disabilities: Dyslexia, dyscalculia, and similar challenges.
8. Multiple Disabilities: A combination of two or more disabilities.

Understanding these categories is critical for any teacher pursuing a special education qualification.

Special Education Needs Courses Online

One of the most convenient ways to get a special education qualification is through online special education needs courses. Atheneum Global offers comprehensive courses that allow aspiring teachers to study at their own pace from their own comfortable location.

These courses are designed to prepare teachers for real-world challenges in inclusive classrooms. They are ideal for:

• New educators are entering the field.
• Experienced teachers seeking specialisation.
• School administrators and counsellors.
  
  

What You Will Learn: Course Subjects

The curriculum at Atheneum Global covers a broad range of topics that prepare aspiring educators to effectively meet special education needs. The main subjects include:

1.   Introduction to Special Education: Overview and Theory of the Subject.
2.   Physical Disabilities: Teaching strategies and accommodating the differently abled children.
3.   Sensory Impairment: Adapting content for those children with vision and hearing issues.
4.   Intellectual Impairment: How to be ready for those with Cognitive development issues.
5.   Behavioural and Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Understanding and managing classroom behaviour of the neurodiverse.
6.  Autism Spectrum Disorder or Pervasive Developmental Disorder: Understanding autism and the effective teaching strategies for children with ASD.
7.  Speech and Language Impairment: How to help children in need of Communication development.
8.   Specific Learning Disabilities: This module prepares teachers with knowledge about the tools and techniques for addressing learning barriers.
9.  Multiple Disabilities: Developing Inclusive Lesson Plans for neurodiverse students.
10.  Learning Theories and Modes of Teaching: Makes educators aware of the various Pedagogies of teaching.
11.  Learning for Children with Special Education Needs: This module empowers aspiring educators with the knowledge of how to adapt curriculum and instruction.
12.  Inclusive Education: Teachers and aspiring educators on how to build and maintain an Inclusive classroom

Benefits of a Special Educator Qualification

Pursuing a special educator qualification not only enhances your career but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of students. Key benefits include:

• Increased job opportunities.
• Better understanding of diverse learners.
• Ability to foster an inclusive classroom culture.
• Contribution to a more equitable education system.
  
  

Conclusion

The role of a special educator is critical in today's inclusive education environment. A special education degree provides you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address varied special education needs, support students efficiently, and create effective learning environments. With the availability of online courses from Atheneum Global, aspiring teachers in India can now contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and equitable educational environment.

FAQs

Q: What do you mean by special needs education?

Special needs education refers to teaching strategies and practices that help students with disabilities or learning difficulties. It promotes equitable access to education and helps each student reach their full potential.

Q: Where can you upskill as a special education teacher when you are working as a teacher?

When you are already working as a teacher and want to upskill to be able to take care of an inclusive classroom (as it is being progressively more encouraged by the Government), online courses are the ones for you. Because these will allow you to learn at your own pace and from the comfort of your place. You can easily do this course after completing your teaching responsibilities. Atheneum Global is the best online teaching college, which gives you the facilities to do so at ease.

Q: Can new aspiring teachers do this course?

Absolutely. Aspiring teachers are welcome to take this course online. It’s a good opportunity for those who may have other commitments to attend in-person programs. The online format lends you the flexibility to learn on your own without sacrificing your current responsibilities. It's a smart way to invest in your teaching career.