ESL vs. Bilingual Education: What’s the Difference?
ESL and bilingual education both help students build English language skills, but they take different approaches in the classroom. ESL instruction is taught in English and focuses on language immersion, while bilingual education uses both English and a student’s native language to support learning.
Watch this quick breakdown of ESL vs. bilingual education
What Is ESL Education?
ESL education teaches students English through instruction delivered in English, with a strong focus on language immersion, meaning English is the primary language used when teaching.
So, do ESL teachers have to be bilingual?
No, English is the only language an educator needs to know to excel as an ESL teacher. The principle driving ESL education is that students will learn English faster if they’re immersed in the language.
Although they’re supported every step of the way, it’s sink or swim for ESL learners as they’re taught to read, write, and speak English. The use of other languages may be even be prohibited in an ESL classroom to encourage the use of English.
There are several types of ESL programs, but pull-out is one of the most popular forms. In this model, students are pulled out of their general education classes and instructed by ESL teachers either in groups or one on one.
This is where some confusion arises between ESL vs. ELL students. English language learners (ELL) is a broad term that applies to any student learning English. In what’s known as the push-in model, English language learners are usually kept in general classes and instructed by visiting ESL teachers.
ESL education can produce exceptional English speakers. However, students in ESL education who are unable to fall back on their native language may struggle to grasp complex concepts in English, and students’ proficiency in their native language may suffer as they focus solely on learning English. As an ESL teacher, it would be your job to help your ELLs overcome these challenges.
What Is Bilingual Education?
Bilingual education teaches students in both English and their native language so they can build academic skills while developing English proficiency.
For example, a bilingual education classroom may be entirely filled with Spanish-, Chinese-, or Arabic-speaking students. Because their native language is used as part of instruction, students may feel more supported as they transition into English.
In bilingual classrooms, students are instructed in math, geography, history, and other traditional subjects. Unlike a traditional classroom, however, students are taught in both English and their native language. With the aid of a teacher who can engage in discussions, debates, and presentations in their first language, students in bilingual classes have a better chance of becoming fluent in both languages.
Dual language education, also known as two-way immersion, is a type of bilingual education that is steadily growing in popularity. As opposed to other programs that immerse students in a target language as quickly as possible, dual language education teaches ESL learners and native English speakers together with the goal of functional bilingualism and biliteracy for both groups.
In an article published by NPR, George Mason University professors emeriti Wayne Thomas and Virginia Collier looked at eight million student records and found that dual language students had higher test scores, higher parent involvement, better attendance, and fewer behavioral problems than students in English-only classrooms.
What Do ESL and Bilingual Education Have in Common?
ESL and bilingual education teachers both nurture and cultivate English language skills. Teachers in either role can enjoy fulfilling careers teaching students a language that will better connect them to the world and people around them. Permanently enriching the lives of students is the goal of every educator, but that’s not the only thing these two career options have in common.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there were five million ESL learners enrolled in the United States public school system in 2017, up from 3.8 million students in 2000. Texas, in particular, has a high need for ESL and bilingual education teachers, with 20% of the state’s total student population identified as ESL learners.
As the number of ESL learners continues to rise, school districts will be in greater need of ESL and bilingual education teachers. Once you’ve earned your degree and are looking at ESL vs. bilingual certification in Texas, know that either option leads to a growing career field.
Bilingual education teachers often earn annual median salaries of about $62,000. Although they may not speak a second language, ESL teachers possess a highly sought-after skill set and earn about $56,000 annually. While a career as an ESL or bilingual ESL teacher is both financially and emotionally rewarding, you’ll first need to enter a master’s degree program that builds upon your strengths.
You’ve seen the commonalities these careers share; now let’s break down what sets them apart. Explore the chart below to compare key differences between ESL and bilingual education:
Upon completion of the program, students enrolled in UT Permian Basin’s MA in bilingual education program have the option of sitting for the Texas Bilingual Supplemental Exam, as long as they meet the other eligibility requirements.
Whether you immerse your students in a new language or act as a bridge between two languages, our online program will empower you with the skills needed to teach any ESL learner who enters your classroom.
Because English language learners enter the classroom with different levels of English proficiency, educators often need to adjust instruction to meet students where they are. Teaching strategies such as differentiated instruction, scaffolding, culturally responsive teaching, and ongoing assessment can help students improve in several ways. Building their language skills? Absolutely. Having a better understanding of academic content and participating more…
Chances are you’re already a certified classroom teacher or well on your way to becoming one. So why go through the trouble of earning a master’s degree in bilingual/ESL (English as a second language) education? How about the chance to help a growing generation of students learn a new language that’ll increase their chance of…
Whether you’re an educator structuring an engaging curriculum for your English language learners (ELLs) or you’re thinking about checking an item off of your bucket list by learning a second language, one thing is for sure—mastering a new language isn’t for the faint of heart. From language-learning apps to one-on-one lessons with a personal tutor,…
If you’ve ever imagined leading a school community—supporting students, guiding teachers, and making big-picture decisions that shape the future—becoming a principal might be your next step.
In Texas, the path to principal certification includes a mix of education, experience, and exams. Whether you’re currently teaching or just starting to explore leadership roles, this guide will walk you through the five key requirements set by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). It all starts with earning your master’s degree in educational leadership—and we’ll show you how to get there.
Step 1: Earn a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership
Finding a university accredited by one of the agencies recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) is the first stop on your way to becoming a Texas principal. The U.S. Department of Education provides an accredited database you can use to research qualifying universities, but we can save you some time.
Since 1975, The University of Texas Permian Basin has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the recognized regional accrediting body for degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern United States.
When you earn a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from UT Permian Basin, you’re earning a prestigious degree that meets the first requirement for becoming a principal in Texas. Our program will also prepare you for this role by covering such topics as instructional leadership, school public relations, cultural diversity in education, and school law.
Step 2: Maintain a Valid Teaching Certificate
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you already hold a valid classroom teaching certificate. As stipulated by TEA, standard education certificates must be renewed every five years (continuing professional education requirements and application instructions can be found here). Educators with a lifetime certificate (certificates issued prior to Sept. 1, 1999) must still have them revalidated by taking the Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA).
Step 3: Gain 2 Years of Teaching Experience
Completing two years as a classroom teacher is one of the requirements for principal certification in Texas. Many of the skills you’ve acquired as an educator—active listening, conflict resolution, time management—will prove invaluable in a career as a principal.
UT Permian Basin’s online MA in educational leadership program is a meaningful, rigorous program that will build upon these skills by engaging you in real-world experiences that administrators encounter on a day-to-day basis.
Furthermore, because our program is 100% online, you can continue your education while working toward that two-year teaching requirement. If you’re an educator with a busy personal and professional schedule, our flexible online program and its multiple annual start dates can accommodate your needs.
Step 4: Complete a Principal Preparation Program
Prior to taking the final exam to receive a Texas principal certification, candidates must complete a principal educator preparation program. What is a principal educator preparation program? Essentially, it’s a graduate certificate program offered by universities to students who have already earned a master’s degree.
UT Permian Basin offers an online principal certification program that prepares professionals for not only the certification exams but also a career as an advocate for the students, teachers, and staff that may one day be under their administration. Advanced candidates in our online MA in educational leadership program may also become eligible for a principal certification.
Step 5: Pass the Texas Principal Certification Exams
As of Sept. 1, 2019, candidates must also complete the Performance Assessment for School Leaders (PASL) to obtain a standard principal certification. The PASL includes three tasks that must be completed during the candidate’s internship, including a video submission of themselves facilitating a collaborative team.
As part of UT Permian Basin’s online MA in educational leadership program, students complete an eight-week supervised practicum in a school setting during which students can complete the video submission requirements for the PASL.
From Classroom to Leadership: Start Your Principal Journey with UT Permian Basin
Like UT Permian Basin’s online MA in educational leadership program, a career as a principal is rigorous and rewarding. No two days are the same, as principals attend school assemblies, meet with parents, and stop by classrooms. At every turn, they’re interacting with students, listening to their successes and failures, and watching them grow into more mature and well-rounded learners.
If life as a principal appeals to you, there’s a clear path to becoming a principal in Texas, and it begins with earning an MA in educational leadership.
Gamification in education uses game-like elements such as points, badges, challenges, and leaderboards to make learning more engaging and motivating for students. By bringing familiar features from games into the classroom, educators can encourage participation and support stronger student buy-in. From elementary school to college classrooms, you can use gamification in different ways depending on students’ needs and learning…
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela Shaping Education: From Pioneers to Advocates Education has long been a cornerstone of human civilization, shaping the course of society across generations. Educational pioneers like Horace Mann, who championed free public education, and Maria Montessori, who revolutionized individualized learning,…
Robots in the classroom. Three-dimensional online education. 2025 is well underway, and the potential for big developments in education is on the horizon this year. Perhaps unsurprisingly, many of these educational trends are centered around technology-facilitated digital learning. Some may be familiar, while others may be new to you. All are expected to become more…
Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with word decoding, or the ability to understand how a word’s appearance relates to what it sounds like. Regardless of their vision or intellect, people with dyslexia can experience difficulty reading, spelling, and speaking. What it’s like to live with dyslexia? Dyslexic individuals often report that they see letters “jump around” when trying to read. If that seems challenging as an adult, imagine what it must feel like for boys and girls entering school.
The importance of early detection of learning disabilities like dyslexia can’t be overstated. Dyslexia can have a profound impact on a student’s ability to read and write. Without these invaluable language skills, students with dyslexia can experience avoidable and lifelong educational, social, and economic problems. Let’s take a closer look at dyslexia and how special education teachers can intervene when they suspect a student may be dyslexic.
How Are Young Boys and Girls Affected by Dyslexia?
What’s it actually like for young learners with this disorder? Children typically don’t encounter issues with dyslexia until they have a book in their hands and are surrounded by classmates. Because of their disability, they often have to read something several times before the message sinks in. They encounter a similar issue with spelling, often spelling a word differently over and over again. As a result, dyslexic students have to work harder to catch up to their peers, which leads to frustration, low self-esteem, and anxiety—issues that can stay with them well into adulthood. Despite often having above-average intellects, dyslexic students can come to feel “stupid.” That’s the last thing that special educators want for their students.
Intervening at a Crucial Time in a Child’s Life
Despite increased awareness, the majority of children with dyslexia aren’t identified until the fifth grade, with many students identified far later. What makes this so disheartening is that intervention is far less effective when administered after the third grade. A recent study published by the Journal of Educational Psychology found that students at risk for reading disabilities who received intervention in the first and second grade made gains nearly twice that of children who didn’t receive intervention until the third grade. Furthermore, the reading outcomes for first graders who received intervention were even greater than that of their second-grade peers, further proving the importance of early detection of dyslexia.
Why is early intervention so effective? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the connections in a child’s brain are most adaptable in the first three years of their life. These formative years are a crucial part of children’s physical, cognitive, and behavioral development, which is why intervention is less effective after a child reaches the age of three. Without aggressive, early intervention, children with dyslexia may be unable to overcome significant and persistent achievement gaps.
The Achievement Gap
In an article published by the Journal of Pediatrics, researchers looked at the achievement gap between dyslexic and typical readers. The reading scores and verbal IQ of 414 participants were assessed yearly throughout grade school. Researchers found that the achievement gap between dyslexic readers and their peers was evident as early as first grade. In addition, the trajectories for these two groups never converged, meaning that dyslexic students were unable to catch up with their peers. As the article states, “If the persistent achievement gap between dyslexic and typical readers is to be narrowed, or even closed, reading interventions must be implemented early, when children are still developing the basic foundation for reading acquisition.”
The article goes on to list potential consequences for dyslexic readers, including:
Lower high school graduation rates
Higher levels of unemployment
Lowered postsecondary attainment
By implementing effective reading programs in preschool and kindergarten, educators have better chances of closing the achievement gap and helping dyslexic students avoid these negative outcomes.
How Can Educators Identify and Help Dyslexic Students?
Although educational research supports the theory that early detection of dyslexia is important, there is much debate as to which screening method is the most effective. Universal screening with a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) is among the most popular ways to identify a child’s risk for having or developing dyslexia. With this approach, students are screened twice a year from kindergarten through the third grade. Screening results are then used to inform teaching methods. However, there are limitations with this screening method: chiefly that it’s a broad approach that only identifies students in need of special education services after they’ve already encountered difficulties.
The ideal screening approach involves a progress monitoring system that assesses students’ response to intervention instruction. In Tier 1, an entire class receives “quality first” instruction. Tier 2 contains a small group of students who need more intense intervention in addition to regular instruction, while Tier 3 contains students with the greatest need for individualized attention. Screenings like this are crucial for the development of a child’s individualized education program (IEP), a unique document designed to help a student with disabilities receive special education services and achieve improved academic outcomes. Once it’s decided that a student with dyslexia is in need of special education, the baton is passed to special educators.
Make a Difference in the Lives of Young Readers
There may not be a cure for dyslexia, but reading difficulties can be prevented and developmental delays can be mitigated. Special educators can help students overcome these challenges by being mindful of the signs that a student may unknowingly be struggling with dyslexia, such as difficulty with word retrieval, remembering sequences, or understanding how words rhyme. Once a student has been identified as being at risk for dyslexia, a teacher can employ a number of teaching methods to improve their reading skills. For example, a teacher may employ differentiated instruction—switch up their teaching style—by having students read along while a story is being played on an audio device.
If you’re interested in helping students with dyslexia and other disabilities overcome developmental delays and achieve academic success, consider pursuing a Master of Arts in Special Education from The University of Texas Permian Basin. In addition to being affordable, flexible, and 100% online, our program will empower you with the skills needed to identify the characteristics of disorders like dyslexia and implement the appropriate intervention programs. Students with developmental and learning disabilities can overcome the academic challenges facing them, but they have a better chance of doing so with the assistance of passionate educational professionals like you.
Political science is the study of government and political systems: how they’re structured, how they operate, and how they interact with one another at different levels. Many formal degree programs in political science delve into both theory and practice to give students the broadest possible understanding of the subject.
A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science can help prepare you to excel in a variety of rewarding and influential careers. Let’s examine some of the potential careers that political science majors may pursue after completing their BA in political science and also get a glimpse at the political science pay scale.
1.Market Research Analyst
Market research analysts collect and assess data on market conditions, consumer buying habits, and competitive companies to predict how a product or service will be received—or is being received—by consumers. They may gather this information through numerous methods, including:
Focus groups
Personal interviews
Polls/surveys
Internet research
Polling and surveys in particular play a big role in politics, both in determining which candidates voters support as well as which issues are important to them. Based on their conclusions, market research analysts provide marketing recommendations to their client or employer.
Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median pay for market research analysts as of 2019 is $74,680 per year. Further, the BLS reports that the projected growth rate for this position from 2018-2028 is 20%—much faster than the average for most occupations. It’s unquestionably a high-growth field.
2. Attorney
Attorneys may represent a variety of client types, from government agencies to corporations to private citizens. They serve many roles, including:
Advising clients on legal matters
Representing clients in court
Executing legal documents
Interpreting the impact of legal rulings and laws
Becoming a political science major is considered a solid foundation for any student who wishes to continue on to law school. Earning a BA in political science helps students develop strong research skills that are required in the legal profession.
Salary
Attorney is one of the most highly lucrative professions on the political science pay scale, with an estimated median annual salary of $145,760 as of 2023.
3. Public Relations Specialist
Public relations specialists help build and protect the public reputation of governmental and private sector organizations and, in some cases, individuals. This often means speaking publicly on behalf of these parties, disseminating important information, and mitigating damage to their public image during crises and controversies.
Salary
The BLS states that public relations specialists earn a median annual wage of $66,750.
4. Legislative Analyst
Legislative analysts are generally employed by private companies to provide an understanding of how current and proposed laws might impact their businesses. Individuals in this position must stay abreast of laws and regulations at all levels of government: federal, state, and local. To stay close to legislative action and lobbying efforts, some legislative analysts work in Washington, D.C., regardless of where their company is headquartered. T
Salary
As of 2025, the average base salary for legislative analysts is more than $58,000 per year.
5. Policy Analyst
Policy analysts are often employed by private companies or think tanks to build public awareness of a specific issue. Typically, they have a proposed solution to these issues and hope to generate government action in their favor. Policy analysts may also work for governments, helping create policies and assessing their effectiveness.
Salary
The current average annual salary for policy analysts is estimated to be more than $65,000.
6. Social Media Manager
Social media is used to promote all manner of businesses, causes, candidates, and viewpoints. Because of the broad reach of social media outlets including Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, the medium is highly effective in reaching and potentially influencing a large number of voters.
Political science majors gain experience in researching and influencing public opinion. As social media managers, they can strategize and execute highly targeted and effective social media campaigns.
Salary
As of 2025, social media managers in the United States earn an average annual salary of over $61,000, though actual earnings vary based on location and experience level.
7. Journalist
Journalists perform a variety of functions, including covering news stories, writing them, presenting them via broadcast media, and offering related commentary. Their role may be to investigate stories, use a critical eye to discover all relevant facts, and report any findings back to the public in the most objective manner possible. The political expertise political science majors gain will serve them well in conducting interviews and researching and writing stories connected to politics.
Salary
The BLS states that the mean annual wage for journalists and related professionals is $57,500 per year.
How Do I Get a BA in Political Science?
As an undergraduate degree program, a BA in political science program generally accepts students starting at the freshman level or above, provided they meet the requirements. At The University of Texas Permian Basin, those requirements include submitting transcripts, test scores, and a completed application.
We offer our Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program in a convenient, 100% online format. Courses last eight weeks and there are six program start dates per year. Though the program is delivered entirely online, you’ll remain connected to highly experienced faculty who provide a supportive environment centered on helping you achieve your educational goals.
You can tailor our online BA in political science program to suit specific circumstances. You’ll be able to complete coursework on your own schedule without neglecting your professional and family obligations. If you take the recommended number of courses each semester, you can finish your degree in as little as one year, though you may take more time to accommodate your personal needs.
From Congress to the White House to the Supreme Court, America’s political institutions shape every part of our lives. They decide how much you pay in taxes, whether your vote counts, and what rights you have. But are they working the way they’re supposed to? What Is a Political Institution? Political institutions are the organizations…
When people picture women who reshaped American politics, Ruth Bader Ginsburg often comes to mind first—and for good reason. RBG changed how the law sees gender equality from the inside of the Supreme Court. But here’s the thing: she wasn’t in Congress. Long before women were reliably winning elections—long before it was even legal for…
Ever wonder how elections actually work? The answer lies in electoral systems. Not to be confused with the Electoral College, an electoral system is a set of rules for casting and counting votes and determining who wins. Different countries use different methods to choose their leaders. Some systems can declare a winner with just 34%…
The vast majority of students with disabilities spend their school days in general education classrooms, surrounded by nondisabled peers. The reasons for this are clear: students with disabilities have improved academic outcomes, have fewer absences, and receive better instruction when taught alongside their nondisabled peers. However, in order for students with disabilities to master general education content, general educators and special education teachers must work together to provide an inclusive classroom that accommodates their needs.
Classroom inclusion goes beyond giving students with disabilities the quality education they have a right to. It’s about providing an improved learning environment that takes into account the unique needs of all young learners. As we discuss the many benefits of and approaches to making classrooms more inclusive, consider what it would be like to expand your role in education and serve the students most in need of your attention.
The Benefits of an Inclusive Classroom
A paper published by the National Center of Educational Outcomes (NCEO) shows that 80-85% of special education students can meet the same achievement standards as their nondisabled peers if given the individualized instruction, appropriate access, supports, and accommodations required by the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Students with disabilities are affected to varying degrees by a variety of conditions, and only a small group of students, including students with intellectual impairments, autism, and multiple disabilities, require different achievement standards. Even then, these students benefit from grade-level curriculum.
In a paper summarizing the evidence on inclusive education, researchers looked at more than 280 research studies in 25 countries and found consistent evidence that when students with disabilities are taught alongside their nondisabled peers, their cognitive and social development benefited. Although results vary from student to student, students with disabilities in inclusive classrooms tended to outperform their peers in segregated settings.
Classroom inclusion for special needs actually benefits disabled and nondisabled students alike. In order to foster inclusivity, educators have to take into account students’ individual strengths and weaknesses, which means providing students with multiple ways to engage with material, interpret content, and express themselves in class. As a result of their relationship with students with disabilities, nondisabled students in inclusive classrooms also report having improved self-esteem, personal principles, and acceptance of people who look and behave differently than they do—acceptance that can develop into lifelong friendships.
Making Classrooms Inclusive for Special Needs
In order for students with disabilities to achieve academically, it’s not enough for them to share a classroom with their nondisabled peers. In an article by Scholastic, education consultant Audrey O’Clair compares an inclusive classroom to a wheelchair ramp, an accommodation that can help one segment of the population while being used by all. “When it comes to education, how can we make a metaphorical ramp?”
Review Individual Education Plans
As required by IDEA, every student with a disability is entitled to an Individual Education Plan (IEP), a unique document developed by parents and a multidisciplinary team to improve educational results for students with disabilities. Among other vital information, this document covers a student’s annual goals, special education services to be provided, and the extent to which they can participate with nondisabled students. Reviewing the IEP of every student with a disability in your class will help ensure that you are meeting their specific needs.
Create a Safe Space
Students can feel distracted or even distressed by loud noises and commotion in and outside of the classroom. When students feel overwhelmed or frustrated, a safe place can help them regain their composure. A safe place can be designated anywhere in the room that students feel comfortable, whether that’s behind a bookshelf or at a desk in the corner. Some teachers even allow their students to briefly leave the classroom if they feel uncomfortable cooling down in front of their classmates.
Consider How Students Interact With Their Environment
Wheelchair-bound students need to be able to move around their classroom with ease, while students with vision impairments need to sit closer to the front of the class. Ask yourself: how would I interact with the world if I was a small child? Are there enough learning materials, and are they all within reach of the young boys and girls in my class? Stock your classroom with enough pencils, paper, and supplies to ensure that a student’s preferred learning materials are only an arm’s length away.
Differentiate Instruction
Differentiated instruction entails using multiple teaching methods so that every student can benefit. For example, some students excel at reading and will benefit from reading a story by themselves, whereas other students are better listeners and will benefit from reading along with an audio recording. One of the key tenants of differentiated instruction is giving students as many opportunities to learn as possible. By providing learning materials of varying types and levels of difficulty, teachers can ensure that all students have access to learnable content.
Rely on Your Fellow Teachers
Special education teachers are sources of support for students and general education teachers alike. Traditionally, special education teachers would join a general education classroom to assist a small group of students or provide individualized attention to a single student. However, making sure that students with disabilities don’t feel singled out from their peers is an important aspect of classroom inclusion for special needs. General and special educators may take turns instructing students in an inclusive classroom. They may even elect to co-teach a class and foster an inclusive learning environment together.
Making a Difference in the Lives of Disabled and Nondisabled Students
There are nearly 7 million disabled students currently enrolled in the U.S. public school system. The vast majority of these students are placed in general education classrooms, where they rely on the experience and expertise of trained educators. If you’re interested in becoming a source of support for these students, consider pursuing a masters’ degree in special education from The University of Texas Permian Basin. At UT Permian Basin, you can earn a Master of Arts in Special Education in as little as 12 months and advance in a growing field of advocates, educators, and specialists.
Psychology is the study of the biological, social, and environmental influences that affect how people think, behave, and learn. This last item has been the subject of great debate in the special education field, where educators strive to help students overcome achievement gaps. With about 14% of all public school students in the U.S. receiving special education services, how can educators provide the ideal learning environment for these young boys and girls?
To answer this question, we’ll have to take a look at the role of psychology in special education, i.e., educational psychology. Educational psychology has been the driving force behind some of the greatest advances in the field of special education, including the reintegration of students with disabilities into general education classrooms. If you’d like to learn how educational psychology can be used to help students with disabilities achieve academic success, consider pursuing a Master of Arts in Special Education from The University of Texas Permian Basin.
What Is Educational Psychology?
Educational psychology is the branch of psychology concerned with the processes and problems that influence learning. By understanding how people absorb and retain information, educational psychologists can inform instructional processes and help ensure improved academic outcomes for students, regardless of their abilities, resources, or environments. This is especially important for students with disabilities, who are affected to varying degrees by a range of developmental challenges.
The origins of educational psychology can be traced back to Aristotle and Plato, but it’s psychologists like Jean Piaget who laid the foundations for one of the most important principles of educational psychology: knowledge can’t simply be given. Teachers can present information in an engaging and relevant manner, but it’s ultimately up to the student to learn and retain information. This is the idea behind the constructivist theory, a theory of learning that asserts that students can only learn by building upon previous knowledge. Cooperative learning is another key principle of constructivist theory and is the idea that students will more easily overcome problems and comprehend lessons if they are able to work through them in groups.
Although a number of other theories, including the cognitive learning theory, shape how lessons are taught across the United States, the idea that a student is an active participant in their learning experience is continuing to shape how students with special needs are taught in the classroom.
The Effect of Educational Psychology on Special Education
With the reauthorization of the Individuals With Disabilities Act (IDEA), all children with disabilities are guaranteed free, appropriate public education. As Congress reasserted the importance of this groundbreaking legislation in 2004, educators began shifting their focus to the individual rather than their impairments. With this dynamic shift, general education teachers are increasingly teaching a mix of disabled of nondisabled students—a task that comes with its own set of challenges. For assistance, general educators often rely on special educators, who can apply their knowledge of educational psychology to the classroom and help provide the ideal learning environment.
The Impact of Educational Psychology on Classrooms
Educational psychology has completely altered the special education landscape. Whereas students with disabilities were once segregated from the rest of the student population, educators now know that the majority of students with disabilities can achieve the same academic standards as their nondisabled peers. However, the needs of every student with a disability must be accounted and provided for if they are to achieve academic success.
Planning Lessons Around Students’ Strengths and Weaknesses
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to educating students with disabilities. Taking the lessons learned by educational psychologists, teachers differentiate instruction so that every student has a chance to learn regardless of their abilities. In addition to flexibility, ongoing assessment, and collaboration, differentiated instruction prioritizes group work and a challenging work environment: student-centered concepts shared by the constructivist view of learning. In an inclusive classroom, students with disabilities are taught alongside their nondisabled peers and receive individual, small-group, and whole-class instruction, as well as the opportunity to discuss lessons with peers of varying ability and interests.
Providing a challenging learning environment often proves more difficult. How do you provide engaging content to both disabled and nondisabled students? Remember, students learn by building upon their own experiences, which is why it’s best that students always engage with content they are able to learn. This means assessing the progress and needs of every student and planning lessons accordingly.
Why Is Educational Psychology Important for Special Education?
Prior to the passing of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act in 1975 (currently enacted as IDEA), individuals with disabilities were often relegated to state institutions, where they would receive little more than the bare necessities—food, clothing, shelter. Individuals with disabilities were rarely educated and rehabilitated. What is the role of psychology in special education? Educational psychology provides teachers with a means to educate individuals with disabilities who may not otherwise have access to the first-rate education they deserve.
Learn About Educational Psychology and So Much More
Educational Psychology covers theories of behavior, learning and instruction and research on human ontological development, and it’s one of the many courses taught in UT Permian Basin’s online MA in special education program. In our online program, you’ll learn how to apply these concepts to the classroom. Additional program courses that can prepare you for a rewarding career as a special education teacher include:
Research Design in Education and the Social Sciences
Foundations of Special Education
Programs and Practices for Exceptional Learners
Methods of Teaching Exceptional Learners
Characteristics of ASD and Developmental Disorders
Upon completion of UT Permian Basin’s online MA in special education program, graduates are prepared to plan lessons, manage classrooms, and provide instruction, all while accounting for the needs of students with disabilities. If you’re interested in applying the expertise of educational psychologists to your classroom, enroll in our affordable, flexible, 100% online program. The principles of educational psychology will serve you well in the classroom as one of the many considerations you’ll need to take into account when providing the ideal learning environment for special education students.
Technology use has become as standard in today’s classrooms as it has throughout every other aspect of our lives: jobs, family life, personal finances, etc. While students used to carry a stack of textbooks to school, now they’re carrying laptops—even at the elementary level. The paper notebook, in many cases, has been supplanted by the computer notebook.
Technology has always been designed to make the user’s tasks easier to complete, whether it’s an assignment for a class, a time-sensitive project for an employer, or annual tax documents. For students with developmental and learning disabilities, the need for technological assistance in education is even greater.
Special education is geared toward students living with a broad range of conditions, including blindness, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Down syndrome, motor impairments, and autism. Estimates show that more than 7 million students living with disabilities are attending public schools in the United States, and individuals with specific learning disabilities or speech or language impairments make up the majority of these students. Technology in special education can help these disabled students keep up with their peers to the extent possible and prepare for future success.
Types of Technology Used in Special Education
Various assistive technologies are being used for special education students today. These include:
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality environments can help autistic students in stressful situations where they deal with crowds, such as hallways, school assemblies, and the cafeteria. By encountering these scenarios in a nonthreatening virtual environment, these students can gradually become accustomed to them and will be better prepared to respond calmly and appropriately in real-life situations. Virtual reality also gives students with motor disabilities the ability to manipulate objects that they are unable to manipulate in the real world.
Tablets/Handheld Touchscreen Computers
These devices are useful for visual learning, reading, drawing, and watching videos. They can help students with motor impairments improve their coordination and those with reading disabilities comprehend written information via text-to-speech apps. Further, students with autism respond very well to using these devices to learn. Numerous apps have been created specifically for autistic students.
NOVA Chat
NOVA Chat is a dedicated speech generation device that, in conjunction with text-to-speech programs, provides assistance to students who have reading disabilities. It reads text aloud and also converts speech into text on the screen.
Read 180
This software is designed for students who have reading disabilities. It enables users to customize a learning program for each individual student, giving those students fluency goals and tracking their progress as they continue to learn through the program.
DynaVox xPress
Known as a handheld augmentative communication device, DynaVox xPress helps students develop greater reading fluency and natural speech patterns and pronunciation. The device uses a combination of text and images to express language to and increase the vocabulary of the user.
MangoMon
This software offers interactive lessons in reading and math that provide students with individualized attention and tailored education plans. In addition, it gives the parents of the students the ability to view their child’s learning progress.
How Technology Helps
The central purpose of technology in special education is to enable students to learn in a way that accommodates their individual learning styles and limitations. Equally important is helping them experience:
Greater independence
Less anxiety
Improved connection with their classmates
Natural, more comfortable and effective communication
Increased academic performance
Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation, a Columbus, Indiana public school district with approximately 12,000 students, provides one example of how technology in the classroom can help students with special needs excel. According to a U.S. Department of Education report, students in that district who were hesitant to communicate face-to-face became engaged in class discussions in the online setting. After the school district implemented universal design for learning (UDL), an approach that incorporates digital books, specialized software and websites, screen readers with a text-to-speech feature, and other technology tools, graduation rates increased 22% for special education students.
Potential Limitations of Technology in Special Education
While much of the technology mentioned here is user friendly, these innovations aren’t always easily implemented in the classroom. Tools and applications may have a learning curve for the teachers who will be tasked with using them and demonstrating their use to special education students. With internet-enabled devices, there’s also a risk that students’ attention will be drawn away by websites or other functions of the technology that aren’t germane to their coursework.
Our Online Special Education Programs
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers online master’s-level programs in special education that can prepare students to take on the challenges of technology and other aspects of special education as teachers. In their roles as educators, they’ll be able to use technology to improve their students’ learning abilities and, consequently, their lives. Each of these CAEP-accredited degree programs explores the use of technology and innovation in the classroom:
Master of Arts in Special Education
Master of Arts in Special Education with a track in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Master of Arts in Special Education with Educational Diagnostician track
Technology and School Change—a required course in these programs—was created to help students acquire a deeper understanding of the impact technology has on education, especially as it relates to students with disabilities. Course objectives are to understand that impact as it currently exists and what it may be in the future, as well as to examine how educators can use technology across all educational settings to positively influence the learning environment for all students, disabled or not.
Students in any UT Permian Basin special education program can complete Technology and School Change and all their other required courses in a 100% online classroom that allows self-paced learning from any location. The core degree program and autism track can be completed in as little as 12 months, and the educational diagnostician track can be completed in as little as 24 months.
You’ve used various materials throughout your education to help you understand important topics and concepts—textbooks, videos, presentations, and more. While in our younger days we may take these materials for granted, as we grow, we sometimes wonder, “Who decides on all of this? Where does it come from? What kind of degree is required for that job?” That’s where a curriculum specialist, sometimes referred to as an instructional coordinator, comes into the picture.
Curriculum can be defined as all the educational content presented within a class or at a school. A person with the title of curriculum specialist has many crucial duties, including:
Creating and applying curricula.
Reviewing and recommending educational materials such as textbooks.
Establishing processes for teachers to put new curricula into place.
Coordinating and overseeing teacher training workshops.
Evaluating student test results.
Reviewing curriculum standards with teachers.
Suggesting new teaching techniques and technologies.
Helping teachers expand their proficiencies.
Education and Career Potential
A master’s degree is typically required in order to become a curriculum specialist in general education or special education. This position appeals to a wide variety of professionals, including teachers, childcare workers, social workers, and anyone who wishes to work with people who are living with disabilities, and it can be rewarding in many ways. Overall, curriculum specialists set the educational trajectory for young students and the teachers who are guiding them through their education.
Compensation can vary for curriculum specialists, depending upon the job sector in which they work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2019, the mean annual wage for curriculum specialists working in government is $76,270; in elementary and secondary schools, $70,690; in educational support services, $67,580; and in colleges, universities, and professional schools, $60,910. Median pay for curriculum specialists in the United States is $66,290 per year.
Special Education Curriculum Specialist
A curriculum specialist who chooses to work in the special education field can positively impact young lives through education. He or she also has the added opportunity of helping students with learning and developmental disabilities gain critical knowledge that can enable them to transcend their limitations and live more fulfilling lives.
Three Special Education Master’s Degree Programs
As we discussed above, the path to a career as a curriculum specialist for special needs students begins with a master’s degree. The University of Texas Permian Basin offers three online master’s-level special education degree programs that can prepare you for a role as a special education curriculum specialist. You can choose a general program or one with a specific focus.
Master of Arts in Special Education
This program is designed for individuals who want to enrich the lives of students with developmental and learning disabilities. Our MA in special education explores the importance of technology and innovation in the contemporary classroom and shows students how they can overcome some of the unique challenges teachers face today, such as limited resources, issues of diversity and inclusion, and identifying and addressing individual student needs.
Program highlights:
Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
30 credits
No GRE required
Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders Track
This program is designed for individuals who wish to address the differing needs of students on the autism spectrum and help them live more fulfilling lives. Our MA in special education, autism spectrum disorders track examines the role of technology and innovation in today’s classrooms and illustrates how teachers can overcome unique modern challenges, including resource limitations, parental involvement, diversity and inclusion issues, and recognizing the specific needs of students on the autism spectrum.
Program highlights:
CAEP-accredited
30 credits
No GRE required
Master of Arts in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician Track
This program is designed for individuals interested in diagnosing and evaluating the learning needs of students. Our MA in special education, educational diagnostician track considers the place of technology and innovation in the classroom and provides comprehensive training in the use of standardized and curriculum-based assessments to discern learning or developmental disabilities in students.
Program highlights:
CAEP-accredited
36 credits
No GRE required
Leads to eligibility for the Texas Educational Diagnostician Certification
Assistance Paying for Your Master’s Degree Program
In addition to traditional financial aid and GI Bill options, you may qualify for a TEACH Grant. The TEACH (Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education) Grant provides up to $4,000 per year to students who are completing the coursework necessary to embark on a career in a high-need teaching position such as special education curriculum specialist. UT Permian Basin proudly participates in this essential program.
The Added Benefits of Earning a Rewarding Degree Online
Earning a master’s degree in special education online from UT Texas Permian Basin carries with it many benefits. No campus visits are required. Our programs feature asynchronous, 100% online courses that enable you to complete your coursework at your own pace, from any location with internet access. This is a tremendous advantage for on-the-go students who may be balancing their education with professional and personal responsibilities.
Depending on which program you choose, you can select from six start dates per year and finish your degree in as little as 12 months (or as little as 24 months for the educational diagnostician track). Our online courses are taught by the same acclaimed faculty who teach on campus, and when you graduate, your degree won’t say “online.” It’s the same degree you’d earn if you had attended classes in-person and carries the same prestige and the same weight with employers.
If you’re looking for a rewarding career helping special education students learn and grow, special education curriculum specialist may be the role for you. A master’s degree in special education from UT Permian Basin can help you acquire it. Learn more now.
Educational leadership is as important as it sounds. But what exactly does it mean? A quick web search will offer many different meanings. Still, they share one central idea: helping educators perform their best so students can thrive.
The impact of educational leadership is broad and far-reaching. As a leader in education, your influence can be felt from the classroom where teachers and students interact to the boardrooms where tomorrow’s leaders make important decisions, and everywhere in between. Educational Leadership Roles: Key Positions and Career Paths
In terms of professional roles, educational leadership encompasses the following:
Principal
Assistant principal
Superintendent
These, too, share a common element: they each require a master’s degree. A master’s degree in educational leadership can be your next step toward a leadership position in elementary and secondary schools. Graduate degrees put you on the path to increased career potential and can enhance your professional credibility in education and in many other professions.
Why You Should Study Educational Leadership: Benefits & Growth
Aside from the fact that it’s a requirement, a master’s degree in educational leadership is where you hone leadership expertise. As a student in an MA in educational leadership program, you’ll undergo training in a diverse range of crucial areas of leadership, including:
Instructional and administrative leadership
Cultural proficiency
Public relations
Human resource management
School law and ethics
Fiscal responsibility
Organizational theory
An MA in educational leadership prepares you to become a school leader that drives positive change by improving educational processes in elementary and secondary schools.
3 Benefits of Educational Leadership
Pursuing a career in educational leadership offers a wide range of personal and professional rewards. As an educational leader, you’ll not only have the opportunity to influence the lives of students and teachers but also shape the future of education. Here are some key benefits of stepping into an educational leadership role:
#1 Setting Educators Up for Success
As an educational leader, your role directly impacts teachers and their ability to succeed. Here’s how you’ll help:
Hiring the best-qualified educators
Providing necessary tools and training for teachers to excel
Fostering a positive work environment that encourages growth
#2 Shaping the Future Success of Students
By leading schools, you shape the futures of students. Key benefits include:
Giving students a solid academic and social foundation
Guiding young minds to develop essential life skills
Creating opportunities for students to succeed personally and professionally
#3 Boosting Your Career and Salary
Pursuing a career in educational leadership not only offers the opportunity to make a significant impact but also provides attractive financial rewards. Consider the following salary insights:
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals The median annual wage for these roles was $104,070 in May 2024.
Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary These positions, encompassing roles such as principal, dean, and district supervisor had a mean annual wage of $111,060 in May 2023.
Top 10% Earners The highest 10% in these fields earned more than $165,820 annually.
How to Get an MA in Educational Leadership
If you’ve already earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and have at least one year of teaching experience, you’ve already met some of the major requirements to enroll in a graduate degree program. You’ll also need to meet minimum GPA requirements and may need to submit additional requirements such as essays or letters of recommendations.
What Other Qualities Do You Need?
Certain educational and professional requirements must be met before becoming an education leader. Beyond that, however, there are a number of key personality traits you should possess.
As a principal, for example, you’ll regularly interact with fellow administrators, teachers, students, and parents, “people skills” are critical in this position.
The BLS suggests that the most important nonacademic skills for those aiming for a leadership role are:
Communication
Critical thinking
Decision-making
Interpersonal skills
Leadership
Problem-solving
Frequently Asked Questions About Earning a Master’s in Educational Leadership
Thinking about taking the next step in your education career? These frequently asked questions address what a master’s degree in educational leadership involves, why it’s important, and the kinds of roles it can prepare you for.
What is a master’s in educational leadership? A master’s in educational leadership is a graduate degree designed to prepare educators for leadership positions in K–12 school systems. This degree typically includes coursework in school administration, instructional leadership, educational policy, ethics, and human resource management.
What can I do with a master’s in educational leadership? With a master’s in educational leadership, you can pursue roles such as principal, assistant principal, superintendent, instructional coordinator, or district-level administrator. This degree is often required for certification and helps you qualify for higher-level positions with more responsibility and higher salaries.
Why is educational leadership important? Educational leadership plays a critical role in shaping school culture, improving teaching quality, and driving student success. Leaders in this field set vision and policy, support teacher development, and ensure students receive a high-quality education.
What is educational leadership? Educational leadership refers to the process of guiding and managing educators and schools to improve outcomes for students. It involves overseeing school operations, mentoring staff, and implementing strategies that support student learning and achievement.
Is a master’s in educational leadership worth it? Yes. In addition to opening doors to leadership positions, this degree often leads to increased salary potential, greater job security, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on educational systems and communities.
The Advantages of Earning Your MA in Educational Leadership Online
An online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from The University of Texas Permian Basin has many advantages. Asynchronous, 100% online learning means you can complete coursework anywhere, on your own schedule. (Students already working demanding jobs in education or balancing your education with family obligations—we’re looking at you.)
Our flexible program has six start dates a year and enables you to earn your MA in educational leadership in as little as one year. It features the same curriculum and acclaimed faculty members who teach on the UT Permian Basin campus at the College of Education, which is accredited by the prestigious Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Our online program has practicum experiences that help you prepare for principal certification and superintendent certification opportunities ideal for students seeking K-12 educational leadership roles within Texas.
Learn more about the benefits of UT Permian Basin’s online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership today.
The United States is in desperate need of qualified teachers—so much so that schools have started hiring teachers from half a world away. School districts are searching for fully certified professionals, preferably those who are certified to teach two subjects, but what’s the purpose of dual certification if schools are going to such extremes to hire…
Educational leadership is as important as it sounds. But what exactly does it mean? A quick web search will offer many different meanings. Still, they share one central idea: helping educators perform their best so students can thrive. The impact of educational leadership is broad and far-reaching. As a leader in education, your influence can…
Teachers and educators have an incredible influence on their students, whose futures can depend on a teacher’s passion and persistence. Yet there exists a cohort of educators whose influence extends beyond the classroom walls. Armed with education degrees, these educators have harnessed their knowledge to shape policies, ignite change, and inspire students everywhere. Many have…
Psychology has a number of interesting applications. It can be used to alter perceptions, turn enemies into friends, and even make people ignore a man in a gorilla suit. Many individuals are first attracted to the field of psychology by the impact these incredible phenomena have on themselves and those around them. Let’s explore some of the most significant studies and findings in the field of psychology and see how they fit into everyday life.
If you’re intrigued by how these scientific studies, hypotheses, and effects can improve your daily life, you can apply this passion to a career studying and improving the lives of others. The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an online program that allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology on their own time, at their own pace. The study of the mind is an incredible pursuit, and it begins with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
The Ben Franklin Effect
Ben Franklin was using psychology to turn political opponents into trusted allies back in the 1700s. In his autobiography, Ben Franklin tells the story of winning over an adversary who had delivered an impassioned speech against him. Knowing that this gentleman could one day hold substantial political power, Franklin responded in an unconventional manner: He asked to borrow a book. Specifically, he asked to borrow a rare book in a way that both flattered and inconvenienced his adversary. The adversary promptly sent the book, and Franklin returned it with a thank-you note. From that day forward, the “adversary” was far more willing to help Franklin, and the two become lifelong friends.
According to Ben Franklin, “He that has once done you a kindness will be more ready to do you another, than he whom you yourself have obliged.” Another name for this phenomenon? Cognitive dissonance. Essentially, someone who dislikes you can’t mentally process why they would allow themselves to be inconvenienced by you. To avoid discomfort, they will change their opinion of you rather than their opinion of themselves. When employing the Ben Franklin Effect in real life, remember to always use this superpower for good.
The Somatic Marker Hypothesis
“Elliot” had it all: a good job, a happy marriage, and the respect of his peers—until one day he started having headaches. The headaches became more severe, and it was later discovered that Elliot had a brain tumor. The tumor was removed, but not before it damaged the frontal lobe of his brain. Elliot began to look at every situation in his life through a purely logical lens devoid of all emotion—the dream of every procrastinator. The problem is that Elliot had effectively undergone a lobotomy, and his life crumbled soon after.
What can be learned from Elliot’s tragedy? The study of Elliot led to the somatic marker hypothesis, which proposes that emotions, not logic, are the driving force behind decision-making. When making decisions, you filter out choices based on how you feel about the imagined outcome. The next time you’re unable to find the motivation to work, clean, or create, consider why you imagine those possibilities being unpleasant. If you can be honest with yourself, you may arrive at the right decision.
The Halo Effect
In one of the most famous examples of how psychology relates to everyday life, Richard Nisbett and Timothy Wilson set out to study the halo effect, a cognitive bias that occurs when first impressions cloud a person’s perception of others. Over one hundred college students were asked to review footage of a psychology instructor. In some videos, the instructor was friendly and encouraging, while in others the instructor was cold and unlikable. Students were then asked to rate the instructor’s appearance, mannerisms, and accent. The results showed that even when participants had enough information to make an independent assessment, they were influenced by the instructor’s attributes. Students who saw the “likable” instructor rated his appearance, mannerisms, and even his accent higher. Furthermore, students were unaware that their perception of the instructor had any effect on their ratings.
The halo effect can be summed up as judging a book by its cover. When we meet others, we unconsciously allow their attractive features to influence our overall opinion of them. This presents a prime opportunity to use psychology in your daily life. When meeting new people, always try to make a good first impression by displaying confidence, being well-groomed, and not mentioning negative details about yourself. Being aware of the halo effect can also allow you to take a step back from situations and consider if your opinions are being influenced by anything other than logic.
The Invisible Gorilla
How well do you multitask? To put your multitasking skills to the test, watch this video and count how many times the players wearing white pass the ball. The answer is 16, but that’s not what the video is testing. Did you notice the gorilla? If you did, it might have been because you were expecting it, as the original selection attention test involving a gorilla is world-famous.
Did you notice the curtain change or the player on the black team leave the game?
Don’t feel bad if you didn’t. When Christopher Chabris and Daniel Simons expanded on their original experiment, the majority of participants failed to notice one or both of the unexpected events. What this study shows is that people can focus so hard on one task that they fail to notice other important details. According to Simons, “Although people do still try to rationalize why they missed the gorilla, it’s hard to explain such a failure of awareness without confronting the possibility that we are aware of far less of our world than we think.”
Similar to the halo effect, our expectations can alter our perception of reality. The lesson here isn’t that people don’t pay enough attention or that we shouldn’t multitask; it’s that people can be led astray when relying solely on their intuition. How can you use this in your everyday life? Intuition is great for things like deciding what to order for dinner, but for decisions that require an analytical approach, you’re better off giving yourself enough time to react and consider the things that matter rather than relying exclusively on your gut.
