Special Education Philosophy Sample
Assessment Description
A philosophy of special education is a statement regarding your beliefs and values about special education. A shorter version of this statement is often required as part of the application process to obtain employment as a teacher.Create a 750-1,000 word draft of your special education philosophy. Include statements regarding your beliefs and values in each of the following areas:
The purpose of education.
Your personal vision of meeting the learning needs of students with special needs using standards-based instruction.
How some of the ethical frameworks and professional practice standards you have examined will guide your professional practice.
The types of resources teachers should seek to continually deepen their understanding of cultural, ethnic, gender, and learning differences among their students.
The types of professional activities or learning communities that would best facilitate lifelong learning.
Include three scholarly references to support your philosophy of education.
Benchmark Information
This benchmark assignment assesses the following programmatic competencies and professional standards:
MEd in Special Education (ITL/NITL)
MEd in Special Education: Moderate to Severe (ITL/NITL)
6.1: Use professional ethical principles and professional practice standards to guide professional practice. [CEC 6.1, ICSI.6.K2, ICSI.6.K4 ICSI.6.S1, ICSI.6.S2, ICSI.6.S3, ICSI.6.S4, ICSI.6.S5, ICSI.6.S7, IGC.6.K4, IGC.6.K6, IGC.6.S2; InTASC 9(a), 10(f); MC3, MC4, MC5]
6.4: Demonstrate the significance of lifelong learning by participating in professional activities and learning services. [CEC 6.4, ICSI.6.K2, ICSI.6.K5, ICSI.6.K6, ICSI.6.K7, ICSI.6.K10, ICSI.6.S3, ICSI.6.S3; InTASC 9(a), 9(g), 10(f); MC2, MC4, MC5]
MEd in Special Education Mild to Moderate Disabilities (Nevada)
6.4: Demonstrate the significance of lifelong learning by participating in professional activities and learning services. [CEC 6.3, ICSI.6.K2, ICSI.6.K5, ICSI.6.K6, ICSI.6.K7, ICSI.6.K10, ICSI.6.S3, ICSI.6.S3, IGC.6.K5; InTASC 9(a), 9(g), 10(f); MC2, MC4, MC5]Special Education Philosophy Example
Special education is a field of education that is designed to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. The philosophy of special education is centered on the belief that all students have the right to a quality education and that they should be provided with the necessary support and accommodations to be successful in the classroom.
One important aspect of the special education philosophy is the idea of inclusion. Inclusion involves placing students with disabilities in regular education classes with their non-disabled peers, rather than segregating them in special education classes. This approach is based on the belief that students with disabilities should have the same opportunities as their non-disabled peers to learn and grow, and that they should be fully included in the life of the school community.
Another key aspect of the special education philosophy is the use of individualized instruction. This means that each student’s unique needs are taken into account when planning and delivering instruction. Teachers use a variety of strategies and accommodations to meet the needs of each student, including differentiated instruction, assistive technology, and modifications to the curriculum.
Lastly, the special education philosophy is to empower the students with disabilities and their families by providing them with the information and resources they need to advocate for themselves. This includes helping students develop the skills they need to be successful in school and in life, and providing support to families as they navigate the special education system.
The philosophy of special education is based on the belief that all students have the right to a quality education and that they should be provided with the necessary support and accommodations to be successful in the classroom. The inclusion of students with disabilities in regular education classes, individualized instruction, and empowering students with disabilities and their families are key aspects of this philosophy.