Since its designation by the United Nations on April 2, 2007, World Autism Awareness Day has helped foster a greater understanding of people with autism, highlighting their achievements, contributions, and unique perspectives.
World Autism Month, initiated by the American nonprofit organization Autism Speaks and observed throughout April, shares similar aims. Both observances provide an opportunity to discuss factors educators should consider to help ensure the success of autistic students inside the classroom and beyond.
Autistic students can become overwhelmed by experiences involving any of the senses. While it may not be possible to completely adapt a learning environment to an autistic student, especially in a mainstream school, it’s important to consider sensory issues when arranging your classroom.
Make your classroom autism-friendly by using only the amount of light needed, leaving adequate room between desks, and minimizing intrusive sounds and odors. If an art, chemistry, or shop class is next door, seat an autistic student as far away from the source of the potential sensory issue as possible.
Autistic students typically learn best when provided with concrete examples. They’re more likely to comprehend and retain what you teach them when you supplement your lessons with visual aids such as photographs, diagrams, charts, icons, or symbols.
Figurative language can be confusing for autistic students. Always use the most direct, clear, and literal language you can when speaking to them. “Please return from the restroom quickly” is preferable to “Please return from the restroom as fast as lightning.”
Most students function best with a consistent daily structure, and autistic students are no exception. Keep predictable routines, scheduling similar activities such as quizzes or in-class assignments at regular intervals. Help reduce anxiety among these students by setting their expectations with a visual schedule. Whenever feasible, alert autistic students to changes ahead of time.
People with autism are prone to experiencing social anxiety and therefore often need a little extra encouragement. You can reduce their stress, boost their confidence, and motivate them to participate in class by providing positive words after they successfully answer a question or complete an assignment. With preschool-age children, reward systems may be appropriate.
Also consider alternatives to the word “no.” Instead of telling a student what they should not do, tell them what they should do: “No, don’t get out of your seat” becomes “Please stay in your seat.”
Autism is a spectrum, not a specific set of traits. Get to know the needs and learning styles of your autistic students and use that knowledge to adapt your teaching to them. Differentiated instruction strategies are crucial to autistic students’ success.
An important part of the school experience for all students is socialization and the development of social skills. As leader of the class, it’s your responsibility to model and explain social skills such as making eye contact, sharing, taking turns, and following and responding to social cues. You may also teach these skills using applicable books.
Excel in teaching autistic and other special education students from day one. The University of Texas Permian Basin’s CAEP-accredited online graduate degree programs help prepare you. No matter which special education program you choose, you can:
Choose from two rewarding degree tracks or a general program that offers you even broader career flexibility:
Online Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders Track
Online Master of Arts in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician Track
Online Master of Arts in Special Education
Empower your autistic students to shine! Apply here.
Sources:
https://www.teachforamerica.org/stories/tips-teaching-autism-students
https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit-excerpt/autism-classroom-strategies
https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit-excerpt/autism-and-social-skills-development
https://researchautism.org/blog/5-practical-tips-for-teaching-students-with-autism/
https://www.incredibleyears.com/blog/autism-in-the-inclusive-classroom
https://www.autismeducates.com/2012/06/15/what-to-say-instead-of-no/
Industries and fields worldwide are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive efficiency, cut costs, boost profitability, and improve outcomes. An estimated 87% of businesses are using some form of AI technology, with healthcare, financial services, and manufacturing among the fields making the greatest use.
Education, and special education in particular, stands to benefit tremendously from AI. Accessibility, personalization, and adaptive learning capabilities make this technology ideally suited to help educators meet the needs of special education students.
The University of Texas Permian Basin—part of the acclaimed UT System—is integrating AI into its special education master’s degree programs, preparing student-educators to excel in what is soon to be a standard classroom tool.
“Special education is all about personalized learning and making sure that it’s specific for [each student],” explains Dr. Kara Rosenblatt, department chair and associate professor of special education in UTPB’s College of Education. “It’s almost impossible for a teacher to do that when there are, I don’t know, 15 kids with different needs in their classroom.”
One of the biggest developments in the College of Education’s Department of Teaching and Learning has been the recent grant received from the University that will enable research to advance the department’s AI ambitions.
“The guy that we’re collaborating on with this grant, Curtis Rogers, works in our technology department on campus,” Rosenblatt said. “He’s been creating simulations that we’ve been using for a different grant that we have. So that’s kind of how we got the idea to do this research.”
The research examines how AI simulations can enhance special education teachers’ and graduate students’ knowledge of evidence-based practices. Using an exploratory case study, participants engage in classroom simulations, compare their strategies with AI-generated feedback, and provide insights through interviews on decision-making, AI’s practicality, and effectiveness.
“We’re doing this with our current students. We will also do collaborations with the STEM Academy that’s on campus, where we’re currently doing a teacher pathway program. So we want to see how they use AI there.”
Rosenblatt described this project as “exploratory,” as it will enable students to identify useful AI tools and use them properly. “For this grant specifically, it’ll be ChatGPT, because you can create simulations.”
“There’s a class, EDSP 6339, which is the Foundations of Special Education class that shows students how to use AI tools effectively, purposefully, and correctly with their students,” Rosenblatt said. “So AI’s in the coursework—the practical application of the coursework is using AI tools.”
This core course, an integral part of all UTPB’s online special education master’s programs, is currently taught by Dr. Haidee Jackson, assistant professor of special education and special education program co-coordinator. Dr. Jackson has given presentations on AI internationally, in locations including South Korea.
UTPB’s special education students are using the design platform Canva’s AI tools to engage their own students. Canva allows educators to customize, adapt, and personalize content for use in the classroom. The application’s text-to-image capabilities empower them to quickly illustrate even complex and abstract concepts simply by typing in a few words.
Prepare for what’s ahead in your career and the special education field in The University of Texas Permian Basin’s CAEP-accredited online master’s degree programs.
Delivered in a flexible online learning format, our programs enable you to complete coursework on a flexible schedule from virtually any location as you continue to meet your professional and personal commitments.
Start any of these UTPB programs with no GRE requirement:
Online Master of Arts in Special Education
UTPB’s MA in special education equips you to create inclusive classrooms, address resource limitations, foster diversity, and meet individual student needs.
Online Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders track
Our MA in special education with a specialized track in autism spectrum disorders explores physical and cognitive development across the lifespan, emphasizing technology, innovation, and inclusion in modern special education.
Online Master of Arts in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician track
The MA in special education’s educational diagnostician track trains you to evaluate and address students’ unique learning needs using advanced assessment methods and innovative technologies in special education.
By this time next year, you could be finishing your special education master’s degree, preparing for graduation and the next step in your career! Get started now.
Sources:
https://www.dice.com/career-advice/5-industries-benefiting-from-the-a.i.-boom
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 commonplace in 2025.
Current and future educators, education administrators, and other professionals in the field, take note: These innovations are poised to transform teaching methods, student engagement, learning retention, and other aspects of education for years to come.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine-learning tools are ushering in an unprecedented era of personalized education. Schools at all levels are implementing adaptive learning platforms that use AI to tailor teaching methods to each student’s learning style and pace, making lessons more engaging and helping students better process concepts.
The playing field is being leveled for students with physical, mental, and learning disabilities as assistive technologies become more readily available. Tools like screen readers and speech-to-text, as well as Universal Design for Learning (UDL) guidelines, are enabling students with varying needs to participate in class to the full extent of their abilities.
As in business, data is driving progress in education. Efficient data analysis can help teachers assess student performance and adapt their instructional methods as needed. Predictive modeling pinpoints trends and areas that need improvement, making teaching more effective.
Analytics also empowers teachers to provide students with real-time feedback that encourages their continued improvement.
Robots are engaging students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and tutoring in classrooms. AI-driven robots may also be used to help with repetitive tasks such as grading assignments and taking class attendance, freeing up teachers to focus on individual students. These tools do not replace human teachers; rather, they enhance their efficiency, particularly when resources are limited.
With the aid of specialized headsets and smartphone applications, extended reality (XR) technologies including mixed reality (MR), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) are providing students with immersive learning experiences not previously possible online or in a physical classroom.
Students can now explore ancient civilizations or the inside of a human heart virtually in 3D, take virtual field trips, and conduct simulated experiments.
Cloud computing allows educational institutions to minimize onsite technology costs by accessing tools completely online. For students and faculty, the transition to cloud computing facilitates more widespread collaboration capabilities and broader access to academic materials.
Lessons are now being delivered in a “gamified” format that conveys information in a dynamic and entertaining way. Game-based education encourages students to pursue and attain virtual rewards as they reach new levels of learning. In the process, this technology helps students build key soft skills and tracks their progress.
Not all education trends are technology-based. Some represent changing views about the breadth of education. Math, history, and other traditional subjects remain as important as ever. But increased emphasis is being placed on other types of knowledge valuable to every human being at the most fundamental level.
Emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills such as conflict resolution and collaboration are now filling in a longstanding gap in the educational experience and equipping students to live more satisfying lives.
Prepare for what’s to come in education in 2025 and beyond! We invite you to choose the CAEP-accredited online UTPB online program that aligns with your professional aspirations:
Master of Arts in Bilingual/ESL*
Master of Arts in Special Education*
Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders track*
Master of Arts in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician track*
Educational Diagnostician Certification
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
*Meets TEACH Grant and Teacher Loan Forgiveness requirements.
Learn more about these and other available UTPB online programs now.
Sources:
https://www.edtechdigest.com/2024/09/10/top-5-trends-in-educational-technology-to-watch-in-2025/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-predicted-education-trends-2025-kolibrieducation-akrof
https://builtin.com/robotics/robotics-in-the-classroom
https://www.classter.com/blog/edtech/2025-edtech-predictions-10-trends-every-school-should-know/
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 academic, personal and professional success?
A higher salary doesn’t hurt either.
Here are three reasons why you should earn a Master of Arts in Bilingual/ESL Education at The University of Texas Permian Basin.
Two teacher career pathways lie before you: ESL and bilingual education. The right pathway for you depends on your goals and skill set, but teachers who speak a foreign language should choose bilingual education.
Students and teachers may not always speak the same language — sometimes figuratively and sometimes literally. ESL classrooms are composed of immigrants, international students, and other students who speak a native language other than English. Almost 750,000 grade school students in the 2020-2021 school year—about one in five Texas grade school students—were English language learners.
Intimidated by the thought of speaking a different language than your students? Don’t be.
English is the only language spoken in an ESL classroom. You’ll teach essential school subjects while helping students read, write, and speak English. At those moments when students are frustrated, unsure how they can possibly learn a new language, you’ll be there to help. An MA in ESL program will teach you how.
Speaking a foreign language has its perks.
As a bilingual educator, you’ll teach students in both English and their native language, usually Spanish. Not only will your students receive a high-quality education, they’ll also have the best chance of becoming fluent in both languages.
Consider how speaking a foreign language has helped you in your career. Now, imagine each and every one of your students gaining that same advantage.
¿Habla Español?
42 million Americans speak Spanish as their first language, and 15 million speak it as their second. Students and teachers who speak this Romance language will experience opportunities for success, but more importantly, they’ll be able to better connect with the communities around them.
You don’t have to speak Spanish to succeed as an ESL or bilingual educator, especially if you choose to earn an MA in ESL education. If, however, you do pursue a career in bilingual/ESL education, your classroom will likely be filled with students from Mexico, Cuba, and other Spanish-speaking countries, regardless of the teacher career pathway you choose.
An analysis of teacher vacancies revealed that most U.S. states are experiencing some degree of teacher shortage. If you haven’t experienced the effects of the teacher shortage firsthand, you undoubtedly know those who have.
Schools are looking for teachers who specialize in more than one subject area, since this lends educators added versatility in school districts scrambling to fill open roles. Graduate with an MA in bilingual/ESL education and an ability to teach English language learners (ELLs) and you’ll hold a great deal more bargaining power.
Teacher salaries may seem respectable from the outside looking in. If teachers were fairly compensated for time spent grading, creating lesson plans, supporting students, and speaking with parents, however, they’d be paid like kings and queens.
Teachers who earn a master’s degree in bilingual/ESL education can increase their earning potential, especially in Texas.
Created in 2019, the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) offers the opportunity for educators like you to earn a six-figure salary. Participating school districts receive funding allotments of $3,000–$32,000 per designated teacher, 90% of which must go to teachers’ salaries. “It puts [teachers] on a playing field with other high-paying professions and allows teachers to stay in the classroom and receive high compensation,” said John York, chief human resource officer for Longview ISD in Longview, Texas.
Although only in effect in select school districts, TIA is a prime example of how experience and a prestigious degree can help teachers receive the pay they deserve.
UT Permian Basin offers an online MA in bilingual/ESL education program that can help you advance your career and make a difference in the lives of ELLs. With its flexible online format, our program allows you to pursue your degree while you continue teaching in your current position. Earn your master’s degree without ever leaving the classroom!
Choose from one of two concentrations:
Master of Arts in ESL Education
Learn how to foster an inclusive learning environment for immigrants, international students, and other ELLs from all walks of life. Courses like Methods of Teaching ESL will teach you how to overcome language, cultural, and learning barriers in the classroom.
Master of Arts in Bilingual Education
Learn what it takes to be a pillar of support for students who speak a native language other than English. Courses like History and Politics in Bilingual Education will help you keep up with current trends and identify the best instructional models to use when working with ELLs.
Which master’s degree pathway will you choose? Apply to our online MA in bilingual/ESL education program to take the next step on your path toward a rewarding career in education.
When you think of special education, what comes to mind? You might picture students with developmental delays, speech or language impairments, or other observable challenges. While these are accurate, it’s important to remember that special education also supports students with a range of less visible needs. Despite this, society often focuses on more severe disabilities.
Special education programs are designed to provide personalized support tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. This support helps students thrive and succeed, making special education a valuable resource. So why does it often carry a negative connotation?
Join us as we explore the stigma surrounding special education and discuss strategies to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
As beneficial as special education classes can be for students who need additional support, a stigma still surrounds these programs. Society often casts special education in a negative light, resulting in various forms of discrimination. This stigma can lead to isolating students in special education programs from their peers, setting lower expectations for their abilities, and providing fewer opportunities compared to their classmates in general education classes.
This stigma may stem from common misconceptions about special education programs, including:
The stigma surrounding special education can have a significant impact on students and their families. Students may struggle with feelings of inadequacy or become overly aware of their unique needs, which can undermine their confidence. Additionally, caregivers often face emotional challenges, such as worry and stress. Financial difficulties are also a factor. These stresses often arise as they work hard to make sure their children are included in social and educational activities and receive the support they need.
Fortunately, there are several proactive steps that educators can take in removing the stigma of special education, shifting society’s perception of it, and recognizing it for the valuable resource it truly is, such as:
Whether you’ve worked in education or you have a friend or family member in the special education system and have witnessed their triumphs and struggles, you can take a stand against the biases in special education. At The University of Texas Permian Basin, we offer three entirely online master’s degrees that provide a well-rounded foundation in special education to prepare you for a career in this rewarding field:
The time to make changes in the lives of students with disabilities is now. Be the change you want to see in the world—apply to the program of your choice today!
Sources:
https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/special-education-student-growth-teachers-understaffed-20efa9da
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cgg
https://online.utpb.edu/about-us/articles/education/3-myths-about-special-education-debunked/
If you think of a school as a well-manned ship, who is at the helm steering it towards success? While many educational leaders contribute to a school’s progress, the principal serves as the critical role of captain, guiding students and educators toward excellence. How? By creating a supportive environment that fosters high-quality teaching and engaged learning.
A key approach many principals are adopting to ensure the pursuit of educational excellence is transformational leadership: a dynamic method that emphasizes creating a shared vision that motivates both students and faculty to excel. Join us as we explore the essentials of transformational leadership and uncover four strategies principals use to inspire and motivate everyone on board.
Transformational leadership is a method of guiding a team—consisting of faculty, parents, and students—toward a shared vision for the school. Leaders achieve ‘buy-in’ from these stakeholders by creating an inspiring vision, leading by example, and celebrating individual and collective achievements.
While instructional leadership was a staple for educational leaders in the 1980s, transformational leadership rose in popularity in the 1990s and has since become a leading method for school improvement. That’s not to say that instructional leadership doesn’t have a role in education. The two approaches share several positive characteristics, such as:
Transformational leadership takes these efforts one step further, however, by inspiring and motivating the entire school community to embrace changes in education, which can contribute to long-term success.
In addition to these commitments, transformational leaders in education also:
Below, we explore four transformational leadership strategies often used by successful educational leaders:
Instead of siloing departments, transformational principals and other educational leaders encourage teamwork among all teachers and staff. They establish set times for collaboration and involve all stakeholders in the decision-making process. This approach allows them to share ideas, discuss effective teaching methods, identify areas for improvement, and explore potential interdisciplinary lessons. The result is more cohesive lesson plans and a stronger sense of community.
Everyone has different needs, whether they’re students or educators. Transformational leaders ensure that students receive personalized learning plans tailored to their unique needs. For instance, teachers could offer differentiated reading levels for the same text or create learning centers that cater to different learning styles. Both teaching strategies allow students to learn using methods that resonate with their individual preferences.
From an educator’s perspective, transformational leaders can go beyond simply offering generalized professional development. They encourage teachers to become intellectually stimulated by their continued educational pursuits, inspiring them to try new and innovative methods to improve their students’ learning outcomes.
Educational leaders with a transformational mindset are always open to new ideas and promote innovation among their fellow faculty members. Whether implementing new teaching methods, incorporating different forms of technology, providing multiple learning platforms, or completely revamping the curriculum to make it more engaging, they inspire and drive continuous improvement in their schools.
Becoming a transformational leader starts with you. If you’re an educator with a vision for the future and a passion for inspiring others to be their best selves, you’re one step closer to becoming a leader in education.
At The University of Texas Permian Basin, our online ELCC-recognized Master of Arts in Educational Leadership will lead the way toward the next chapter in your career: an administrative role in education. Our 30-credit online program covers all the essential topics relevant to leadership roles in a school setting, taking the guesswork out of selecting courses that may not align with your career path.
You can also expect the following from our accredited master’s program:
Have any questions for us? Feel free to reach out, and when you’re ready to take the next step and become a leader in education, the application is only a click away.
Sources:
https://www.edweek.org/leadership/opinion-transformational-vs-instructional-leadership-which-is-better/2021/10
https://thoughtexchange.com/blog/transformational-leadership-in-education/
English language learners (ELLs) bring a wide range of language skills into the classroom. Some of your students may be brand new to the English language and only know a few words. Others may be close to mastering fluency.
With over 1 in 5 U.S. school-age children speaking a language other than English at home, many students face challenges in an English-speaking environment, from understanding academic vocabulary to participating in classroom discussions. As an ESL educator, your role is not only to teach a language but to help students gain the confidence and tools they need to succeed academically and personally.
In this article, you’ll learn how to tailor your instruction to different proficiency levels using proven methods like differentiated instruction, scaffolding, culturally responsive teaching, and ongoing assessments.
English language learners (ELLs) have unique needs, so it’s essential to identify their proficiency levels. Some students may know how to hold a basic conversation, while others may struggle with even the most basic vocabulary. Proficiency levels vary by state, but in Texas, they include:
To support English language learners at all stages, educators can use a range of evidence-based teaching methods. These strategies help students build language skills, understand new concepts, and feel included in the classroom.
From differentiated instruction to culturally responsive teaching, the techniques below can be adapted based on each learner’s needs and background.
Differentiated instruction means tailoring teaching methods to meet the individual needs of each student. For beginner students, this might mean the use of visual aids, gestures, and simplified language. An educator might pair a picture of an apple with the word “apple” to help the student connect the word with its meaning.
Intermediate students can benefit from group work and peer interactions, such as role-playing activities. Advanced students are challenged with higher-level tasks and analytical thinking. Encouraging them to assist peers may help reinforce their own knowledge, for example.
Rather than treating all ELLs the same, it’s vital for educators to determine each individual student’s strengths and needs.
Psychologist Jerome Bruner first introduced the scaffolding technique in the 1970s. Teachers use this technique to support students before they’re ready to tackle a new educational milestone. Some scaffolding methods include:
Abstract language involves concepts we can’t directly experience with our five senses, like “freedom” or “love.” In contrast, concrete language uses words we can experience with our senses, like “car” or “music.” Concrete concepts tend to be more immediately relatable to us, which means we tend to learn them much faster in a new language.
Educators help students grasp concrete concepts and gradually introduce abstract concepts through visual aids like:
While we all come from different backgrounds, ELL students face the additional challenge of acculturating to a new society that may differ greatly from their own. Culturally responsive teaching recognizes and respects the cultural backgrounds of ELL students. A few ways teachers do this:
ELL students have been found to benefit significantly from corrective feedback that’s actionable and specific. In contrast to a simple letter grade, formative assessments help identify specific areas needing improvement. Educators can use quizzes, oral presentations, and class participation to continually gauge students’ understanding.
Ongoing assessments help educators understand where each English language learner is in their journey and what support they need next.
To make this process easier, the following guide outlines effective ESL teaching strategies by English proficiency level. Whether your students are just beginning or nearly fluent, this quick-reference chart can help you adapt instruction to meet them where they are.
As the number of non-English-speaking households continues to rise, the demand for ESL educators is growing. The University of Texas Permian Basin’s CAEP-accredited online Master of Arts in Bilingual/ESL Education equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively teach and support ELL students.
In this program, you’ll learn to develop and implement innovative strategies, assess language proficiency, and create culturally sensitive learning environments. You’ll study teaching methodologies, language acquisition, and the history and politics of bilingual education while gaining hands-on experience through a full-semester practicum.
Choose from two concentrations:
Best of all, you can study from the comfort of your home while tackling other commitments. Learn more about how to apply.
Sources:
https://www.census.gov/library/visualizations/interactive/people-that-speak-english-less-than-very-well.html
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-20785-5
https://cis.org/Report/One-Five-US-Residents-Speaks-Foreign-Language-Home
Can speaking multiple languages boost your salary? Make travel easier? Even help prevent dementia? The answer is yes. But multilingual societies also face real challenges, from schools struggling with resources to entire languages disappearing. Whether you’re considering learning a second language or wondering how multilingual communities work, this guide covers what you need to know….
Bilingualism can come in handy for travel, work, and personal conversations. But did you know bilingual brains function better and longer? Bilingual people: Impressed yet? Let’s explore the cognitive advantages of a bilingual brain. How Does Being Bilingual Benefit Your Brain? Delayed Cognitive Decline People can stay sharp as they age by reading, playing word…
Education is changing fast. Today’s classrooms are moving away from rigid, cookie-cutter teaching methods. Alongside more modern teaching approaches like differentiated instruction and project-based learning, another player has entered the chat: gamification. If the term brings to mind clunky video games on outdated consoles, you’re not alone—and you’re not entirely off base. Today’s students are…
It’s no secret that universities are competitive, and their programs are equally so. Whether you’re a student searching for the most prestigious graduate literacy program or an educator aspiring to join the ranks at a globally recognized university, there’s one credential you’re looking for: ILA recognition.
According to the International Literacy Association’s website, ILA National Recognition is a rare distinction that is awarded to outstanding licensure, certificate, and endorsement literacy programs. Earning ILA recognition shows that a particular program follows a rigorous set of standards to prepare literacy professionals for excellence in their field. Essentially, if you see a literacy program with ILA recognition, you know they represent the best of the best.
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Master of Arts in Literacy proudly boasts this coveted recognition, and today we’re exploring exactly what that entails.
Founded in 1956, the ILA is a professional membership organization recognized by 128 countries around the world. It supports educators, researchers, and experts alike and is committed to “improving the quality of literacy learning across the globe in ways that are respectful, responsive, and ethical.”
The ILA establishes benchmarks for excellence in literacy education, whether you’re a literacy coach or reading specialist. According to its website, members of the ILA publish cutting-edge research, create evidence-based resources for educators, provide relevant professional development opportunities, recognize exemplary teacher preparation programs, and support literacy leaders with financial awards and grants.
The ILA recognizes multiple types of achievements, including outstanding literacy programs, awards for educators and researchers, and innovative literacy projects and research approvals. Although many literacy programs and individuals apply for ILA recognition each year, only a handful are selected to receive the distinction.
To obtain the honor, the program or person must undergo a thorough evaluation process. Of UTPB’s ILA recognition, Assistant Professor of Literacy Dr. Tara Wilson said, “We applied for this recognition by writing a very extensive self-study that was then evaluated by ILA. ILA paid specific attention to how well our program aligns with the national reading specialist standards which are research and evidence-based.”
Our ILA recognition reflects our dedication to offering a top-tier education for our students. Students immediately become part of a distinguished community of literacy professionals shaping the future of literacy-based education. And with an education from an ILA-recognized program, you’ll be confident, poised, and prepared to help improve students’ reading, writing, and communication skills.
UTPB’s ILA recognition demonstrates that our program’s instructional methods, curriculum design, and assessment practices surpass industry standards. Students in our graduate literacy program can feel confident that they’re receiving a rigorous and enviable education from experienced professors. Coursework is tailored for working professionals seeking to elevate their career as reading specialists, literary coaches, curriculum developers, or other lucrative careers in the literacy space.
With a structured and impactful lineup of courses, our comprehensive 30-credit online graduate program is meticulously designed to deliver essential skills and knowledge, focusing solely on what matters. Courses such as Vocabulary and Spelling Practicum and Clinical and Remedial Reading Practicum equip you with the expertise needed to excel in current or future roles.
But the advantages don’t stop there. We also offer the following competitive benefits:
Choose the literacy program that sets you apart from the rest. Apply today and start making a meaningful impact in the field of literacy education.
Sources:
https://www.literacyworldwide.org/get-involved/awards-recognition/national-recognition
https://www.literacyworldwide.org/about-us/our-mission
https://www.utpb.edu/success/2022/01/college-of-education-national-literacy-recognition
While all students have distinct learning styles, those with autism spectrum disorders have a demonstrable need for additional support in the classroom. ASD students require greater understanding and patience from teachers, as well as specific tools, techniques, and autism-friendly environments to help them learn and thrive. Let’s briefly review some of the evidence-based interventions that educators, often in cooperation with parents, are implementing today.
Proactive strategies that modify an environment before a target behavior occurs and can include a wide variety of treatments.
Example: Develop a series of pictures depicting each step of a common task such as brushing teeth, post them where they’re easy for the ASD individual to see, and regularly check their progress in following the visual schedule.
Drawn from occupational therapy, these strategies seek to identify and rectify sensory issues that may prevent participation in daily activities.
Example: Use a swing such as a hammock to stimulate the vestibular system—responsible for balance, coordination, and spatial orientation—in an ASD individual with sensory processing difficulties.
Interventions that disconnect a behavior from a consequence that may be reinforcing it.
Example: Ignore disruptive attention-seeking behavior by refraining from responding to it while reinforcing positive alternatives, such as raising one’s hand.
Performing a target behavior that encourages the learner to use that behavior, resulting in the adoption of the target behavior.
Example: Have a peer of an ASD individual demonstrate a particular social skill, such as introducing themself to others, and have the individual observe and practice that skill.
This intervention utilizes songs, melodic intonation, rhythm, or a combination of these to aid in the comprehension and/or accomplishment of desired skills and behaviors.
Example: Give an ASD individual an instrument and have them take turns with others in playing it to reinforce cooperation skills.
Prompting strategies include verbal, visual, and gestural prompts that help a person with an ASD carry out a task or follow rules or instructions.
Example: Use verbal and gestural prompts to guide an ASD person through the steps of an everyday action such as tying shoes, and gradually reduce the prompts through subsequent instances of the activity.
Reinforcement involves presenting a stimulus contingent on a response, which increases the likelihood of that response occurring again.
Example: Select a positive behavior that must be reinforced (such as waiting one’s turn), make the ASD person aware of rewards for that behavior, and reinforce with a reward when they exhibit the target behavior.
These strategies describe social scenarios to emphasize key aspects of a target behavior or skill and provide examples of appropriate responses.
Example: Write a detailed first-person story that describes an experience from an ASD individual’s perspective, such as going to the dentist, including each step of the process, to prepare the individual for what to expect and how to behave.
Hone your teaching craft to better serve ASD students in one of The University of Texas Permian Basin’s CAEP-accredited, online special education graduate programs. Each online program equips you to empower students with developmental and learning disabilities and enable them to live more fulfilling and independent lives.
A practicum component of select UTPB special education programs enables you to get hands-on professional experience, while the online format affords you the flexibility to complete a master’s degree while simultaneously keeping your professional and personal commitments. Access your chosen program anytime, 24/7, from any location to complete assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Online Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders Track
UT Permian Basin’s 30-credit MA in special education is ideal for those passionate about supporting students on the autism spectrum. It offers a specialized track devoted to autism spectrum disorders, covering the physical and cognitive development of individuals on the spectrum throughout their lives. The curriculum highlights the importance of technology, innovation, and inclusion in contemporary special education, in addition to evidence-based interventions for ASD students.
See career options, projected job growth, and median salaries associated with this degree.
Online Master of Arts in Special Education
Our 30-credit special education master’s degree emphasizes technology and innovation in inclusive classrooms, equipping educators with essential tools to address challenges like working with limited resources, fostering diversity, creating inclusive environments, and identifying individual student needs.
See career options, projected job growth, and median salaries associated with this degree.
Online Master of Arts in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician Track
Our 36-credit MA in special education with an educational diagnostician track is designed for those seeking expertise in identifying and assessing unique student learning needs. This track provides thorough instruction in standardized and curriculum-based assessment methods to effectively address learning or developmental barriers in students.
See career options, projected job growth, and median salaries associated with this degree.
Get started on your special education master’s degree! Apply today.
Sources:
https://tipsheets.vkcsites.org/evidence-based-practices-for-autistic-students-for-educators/
https://www.autismsociety-nc.org/treatment/
https://docs.autismspeaks.org/evidence-based-practices/
https://www.txautism.net/interventions/modeling
https://www.ice-asi.org/home/about-ayres-si/
https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/how-general-education-teachers-can-support-students-asd
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5152684/
https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/support-child-autism-classroom
“Knowledge itself is power.” –Francis Bacon, British philosopher and author
Reading and writing are foundational skills with which everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background or future ambitions, must be equipped. Here we’ll look at how literacy is linked to an individual’s socioeconomic status and potential, as well as statistics that support these connections.
A concerning 21% of U.S. adults are unable to read and write. With a population of 258.3 million adults, that leaves greater than 54 million illiterate U.S. adults. Statistics from the Urban Institute’s National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) reveal that a staggering two thirds of U.S. schoolchildren lack reading proficiency. Overall, the U.S. ranks 36th worldwide in literacy. These startling numbers equate to less opportunity for many Americans to get ahead.
Obviously, much more work is needed on the literacy front.
Literacy is crucial to securing college admission and any job resulting from earning a higher education degree.
College Admissions
High school students must have good grades to graduate and apply to college, and to pass tests such as the SAT and ACT where required. Performance in any pre-admission interviews, as well as the quality of the application itself, may also indicate one’s literacy level. Illiteracy creates a barrier not only to admission but to success in higher education because college students must be able to read and write at a more advanced levels than were ever previously required of them.
College is the bridge to better socioeconomic status for many Americans. According to data published by the Association of Public & Land-Grant Universities, college graduates are 24% more likely to secure employment than those who only finish high school.
Career Potential
Literate individuals can pursue a broader range of career paths, including many well-paid and highly skilled positions. Those lacking literacy skills face limited options, often encountering challenges in securing even entry-level jobs with basic skill requirements, including positions that may or may not require a college education.
Despite the need for literacy skills in the professional setting, an estimated 36 million U.S. adults are unable to read and write well enough to qualify for jobs that will enable them to support a family. Individuals in this situation are often unable to improve their socioeconomic status.
U.S. government data confirms a clear correlation between education and employment, professional advancement, and earning potential: the higher the academic credential an individual acquires, the greater the employment and earning potential they are likely to experience. Education—the core of which is literacy—has a direct impact on socioeconomic potential, if not status.
Master’s degree holders, for example, earn ~16% higher median wages than bachelor’s degree holders and ~93% more than those with a high school diploma alone. High school graduates earn ~27% more than those who never finish high school. Education also enables individuals to manage their finances effectively, invest in their future, and escape the cycle of poverty.
Help foster greater literacy among Americans of all ages! Start by equipping educators with the expertise to empower their students with the reading and writing skills necessary to flourish in all aspects of their lives. You can do so as a certified reading specialist or in many related education roles.
At 30 credits, The University of Texas Permian Basin’s CAEP-accredited online Master of Arts in Literacy translates to a career-defining, life-changing credential you can earn in under two years. As a student in our program, you’ll:
See more details about our MA in literacy program and apply today!