أسس ومناهج ذوي الاحتياجات الخاصة

Introduction

• The document discusses the importance of teacher training, specifically focusing on field training for students studying special education.
• This training is crucial as it bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
• A well-structured field training program aims to boost trainees' confidence and refine their skills through organized supervision and guidance.

Defining Key Terms

• Field Training: A comprehensive program that blends theoretical and practical components during the student's academic years. Aims to equip students with hands-on experience working with children with special needs.
• Special Educational Programs: Prescribed programs implemented by special education institutions for students with special needs in different settings. Includes intellectual disability, hearing impairment, visual impairment, learning disabilities, and giftedness programs.
• Field Training Supervisor: A qualified special education faculty member providing supervision and assessment to trainees through fieldwork visits.
• Educational Institution/Classroom: The location wherein field training occurs. Ideally, it's a special education setting or preschool with diverse learning needs to accommodate a large number of trainees.

Aims of Field Training

• Knowledge Goals: Familiarizing trainees with special education programs, teaching methods, and student characteristics. Acquiring specific knowledge about the unique needs of children with special needs, and familiarizing students with their varied needs and learning styles.
• Skill Goals: Developing practical teaching skills for working with students with special needs. This includes, but not limited to, assessing learning needs, creating personalized educational plans (IEPs/IIPs), utilizing different teaching strategies, managing classroom environments, and communicating with caregivers.
• Attitudinal Goals: Fostering positive attitudes towards the special education profession, respecting the children and working with compassion, handling constructive criticism, and promoting teamwork and collaboration through professional skills and an understanding of the role of every member in the organization.

Importance of Field Training

• Provides a practical application of theoretical knowledge, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-life applications in special education settings.
• Equips trainees with valuable skills needed for a successful and impactful teaching career.
• Offers a platform for trainees to experience different teaching styles, approaches, and educational materials in special education settings.
• Provides a window to view the realities of special education including its challenges and how they are addressed. This exposure often enhances attitudes towards the profession and promotes a stronger understanding of the administrative structure and procedures.

Roles & Responsibilities of Involved Parties

• University/College Special Education Department: Coordinates arrangements, sets student numbers, provides supervision, and designs comprehensive assessment systems to evaluate field training performance.
• Local Education Authority/Ministry of Education: Links university departments with suitable special education programs in schools/preschools, making arrangements with partner institutions for practical training.
• School/Pre-school Personnel: Hosts trainees, guides them, and provides support as needed by evaluating and documenting the trainees' performance.

Field Training Stages

• Observation Phase: Trainees initially observe teaching practices of experienced specialists.
• Hands-on Application: Gradual introduction of tasks.
• Practical Phase: Direct application of training.

Evaluation of Field Training

• Portfolio Assessment: A comprehensive document showcasing student progress and achievements throughout the training period. Includes examples and assessments.