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.
A Preview of 2025’s Top Education Trends
Personalization
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.
Assistive Technologies
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.
Data Analytics
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.
Classroom Robots
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.
Extended Reality
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
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.
Game-Based Learning
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.
Social-Emotional Learning
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.
Stay Ahead of Education Trends With UTPB Online
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*
- Complete your master’s degree in as little as one year.
- Choose from bilingual education or ESL education concentrations.
- Gear your degree toward bilingual or ESL certification in Texas. .
Master of Arts in Special Education*
- Complete your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders track*
- Complete your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Master of Arts in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician track*
- Complete your master’s degree in as little as two years.
- Secure eligibility for Texas Educational Diagnostician Certification.
Educational Diagnostician Certification
- Prepare to take the exam required for certification.
- Complete this Texas-approved educator preparation program in as little as three semesters.
- Complete your master’s degree in less than two years.
- Prepare for TEA’s reading specialist certification.
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
- Complete your ELCC-recognized master’s program in as little as one year.
- Prepare for Texas SBEC Principal as Instructional Leader certification.
- Complete this Texas-approved educator preparation program in as little as two semesters.
*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.
1. Make a Difference in the Lives of Students
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.
ESL Education Pathway
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.
Bilingual Education Pathway
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.
2. Career Advancement
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.
3. Earn a High Salary
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.
Earn Your Master’s Degree at UT Permian Basin
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.
Understanding the Stigma Surrounding Special Education
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:
- Special education is only for children with severe disabilities.
In reality, not all disabilities are severe, or even visible. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 32% of children who receive special education have specific learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, while only 7% have developmental delays.
- Special education separates students from their peers.
65% of students served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 2019 spent the majority of their school day in general classes, only seeking extra assistance as needed.
Strategies for Destigmatizing Special Education
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:
- Seeking professional development
Educators can benefit from professional development opportunities that equip them with the skills needed to support students with diverse needs. This might include learning diverse strategies to teach the same concept or organizing small group sessions to provide additional assistance where needed.
- Incorporating inclusive teaching practices
Many students in special education spend a portion of their time learning alongside their peers in general education classrooms, and fostering an inclusive environment allows all students to feel valued and capable. Inclusive classrooms can also nurture empathy and understanding. This offers everyone the chance to appreciate different experiences and perspectives. With consistency, inclusive teaching practices can help diminish the stigma surrounding special education.
- Creating supportive environments
Educational leaders play a crucial role in cultivating a school culture that celebrates diversity. Schools can implement initiatives such as diversity workshops and inclusive curriculum development that promote social-emotional learning, understanding, and mutual respect among students.
- Collaborating with parents
Parents of students with special needs may sometimes feel unsupported by a lack of resources. Schools can address this by providing regular updates and involving parents in their children’s education through workshops and meetings. This approach not only builds a supportive community but also allows parents to voice their concerns, share insights, and feel more connected to other parents.
Help Break the Stigma with a Specialized Education in Special Education
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:
- Master of Arts in Special Education
This 30-credit online program is tailored for people who want to improve the lives of students with a range of disabilities. Through technology and innovative strategies, you’ll learn how to overcome many of the challenges that special education teachers and students face today, ensuring that and your future students feel empowered and successful in the classroom and beyond.
- Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders Track
If your passions lie in working with students on the autism spectrum, this online program provides the evidence-based interventions and strategies needed to help your students thrive in the classroom. The program also focuses on diversity and inclusion issues, providing more tools to help the destigmatization of special education.
- Master of Arts in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician Track
This online 36-credit program is ideal if you want to work in a role that allows you to diagnose and assess the learning needs of a variety of students. Throughout your coursework, you’ll receive in-depth training on standardized and curriculum-based assessments so you can diagnose students, develop IEPs, and provide recommendations for therapies and behavior plans.
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.
What Is Transformational Leadership in Education?
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:
- Focusing on improving the quality of education in a school.
- Supporting staff in their roles.
- Prioritizing student success by creating ideal learning environments.
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:
- Inspire faculty to pursue innovative teaching styles.
- Build foundational relationships that are both emotional and intellectual.
- Empower others by embracing their abilities to lead and letting go of the need for complete control.
3 Transformational Leadership Strategies To Implement as an Educational Leader
Below, we explore four transformational leadership strategies often used by successful educational leaders:
#1 Build a Collaborative Culture
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.
#2 Address Individual Needs
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.
#3 Encourage Innovation and Change
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.
What Kind of Leader Do You Want To Be?
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:
- Competitive tuition costs: only $11,729.70 (plus additional fees) for all 30 credit hours.
- Scholarships available to new registrants.
- Completion in as little as one year for eligible candidates.
- Year-round admissions.
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/
Teaching English to non-native speakers can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding. If you’re passionate about becoming an ESL (English as a second language) educator, it’s imperative to know how to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
According to the Forum on Child and Family Statistics, 21% of school-age children speak a language other than English at home, and 5% of these children find speaking English at school challenging. The most common non-English language spoken in the United States is Spanish, followed by Mandarin Chinese. While the number of non-English speakers and second languages spoken in the United States varies by state, there is no shortage of demand for ESL teachers.
In this article, we’ll explore strategies for helping non-English-speaking students. Let’s dive in.
Understanding Proficiency Levels
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:
- Beginning Level
Students at this level are new to English. They may understand basic phrases.
- Intermediate Level
These students can communicate in English but will make frequent errors. They understand more than they can express.
- Advanced Level
These students can understand and use more complex language structures, engaging in detailed conversations with minimal errors.
- Advanced High
Students at this level possess near-native proficiency and can engage in complex and wide-ranging topics.
Next, let’s look at how ESL teachers can best address these different proficiency levels.
Differentiated Instruction
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.
Scaffolding
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:
- Modeling: Teachers demonstrate tasks, like writing a paragraph, before students perform them.
- Think-Alouds: In this strategy, a teacher will solve a problem or read from a text and verbalize their thought process to the student.
- Sentence Frames: These sentence starters help students structure their responses, such as: “I think that ____ because ____.” This gives students a framework to use when they form complex sentences on their own in the future.
Concrete and Abstract Concepts
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 Venn diagrams, flowcharts, and mind maps. They may also leverage real-life context by connecting lessons to students’ own experiences.
Culturally Responsive Teaching
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:
- Incorporating Cultural References into Lessons: Including literature from students’ home countries, for example.
- Encouraging Cultural Sharing: Allowing students to share their traditions and experiences, which enriches the learning environment and builds a sense of respect and community.
Ongoing Assessments
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.
Lead the Way in Bilingual/ESL Education With a Master’s Degree
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:
- Master of Arts in Bilingual Education:
For teachers who will educate in Spanish and English.
- Master of Arts in ESL Education:
For teachers who will educate in English.
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
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.
What Is the International Literacy Association?
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.
Understanding ILA Recognition
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.
Earn Your MA in Literacy Through an Esteemed University Program
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:
- Prestigious CAEP-accreditation.
- Program completion in under two years.
- Flexible year-round program start dates.
- Affordable tuition at $11,729.70 (plus additional fees).
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.
Antecedent-Based Interventions (ABI)
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.
Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI)
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.
Extinction (EXT)
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.
Modeling (MD)
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.
Music-Mediated Interventions (MMI)
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 (PP)
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 (R)
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.
Social Narratives (SN)
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.
Degrees for Aspiring ASD-Focused Educators
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.
- Apply with no GRE requirement.
- Build valuable professional experience through a practicum course.
- Finish our program in as little as one year.
- Receive a TEACH Grant of up to $4,000 to apply toward this program, pending eligibility.
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.
- Apply with no GRE requirement.
- Finish our program in as little as one year.
- Receive a TEACH Grant of up to $4,000 to apply toward this program, pending eligibility.
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.
- Apply with no GRE requirement.
- Build valuable professional experience through a practicum course.
- Finish our program in as little as two years.
- Receive a TEACH Grant of up to $4,000 to apply toward this program, pending eligibility.
- Secure eligibility for Texas Educational Diagnostician Certification.
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.
These Literacy Statistics Are Startling
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.
Illiteracy as a Barrier to Socioeconomic Advancement
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.
The Proven Earning Potential of Education
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.
Elevate Educators and Your Own Professional Potential
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:
- Receive up to $4,000 a year toward your UTPB MA in literacy with a TEACH grant, if eligible.
- Complete studies at your own pace from practically any location in the world while meeting your professional and personal responsibilities.
- Learn from faculty widely acknowledged for their extensive experience in and enthusiasm for literacy education.
- Graduate better prepared for the Texas Education Agency (TEA)’s reading specialist certification. (Consult your state’s certification agency or email Dr. Tara Wilson for requirements outside Texas.)
See more details about our MA in literacy program and apply today!
Principals, curriculum directors, and other school administrators each have an integral role to play within the school system, overseeing responsibilities essential to the success of their staff and students. From navigating budget constraints to signing off on the approvals of newly hired employees, if you’re a current or aspiring school administrator, your daily to-do lists can feel never-ending. However, the reward of witnessing children being taught by supported and empowered teachers is deeply fulfilling.
Still, balancing your administrative duties and personal life can present challenges. Achieving a work-life balance is essential in ensuring your well-being and effectiveness both inside and outside of the school’s walls.
Today, we’re exploring four strategies to help school administrators achieve a harmonious work-life balance.
#1 Set Realistic Goals
As a school administrator, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the numerous responsibilities you conquer daily. But by setting realistic goals, you can cohesively focus your efforts while also prioritizing your tasks more effectively. So, rather than trying to tackle everything at once, consider breaking down your long-term objectives into smaller, achievable steps.
For example, if your goal is to improve your school’s overall academic performance, start by identifying specific areas of focus, such as core subjects like English and math. Collaborate with other administrators and teachers to develop targeted intervention strategies and instructional approaches that you can roll out throughout the school year and beyond. By breaking down your goal into manageable tasks that you, other administrators, and teachers can complete each month, you can make steady—and realistic—progress while avoiding burnout.
#2 Delegate Responsibilities
At home and on the job, collaboration and delegation reign supreme. Need help picking up the kids from school? Great, ask a friend or loved one. Looking for someone who can conduct thorough conduct classroom observations so you can manage this quarter’s budget? Wonderful, reach out to a fellow administrator.
Once you acknowledge that it’s nearly impossible to handle every minute task on your own, you’ve unlocked a new realm of possibilities. From there, you can begin assigning tasks to team members that align with their strengths and provide support as needed.
Not only does this take some of the pressure off of your workload, it also fosters a sense of ownership amongst members of your staff. By delegating tasks, you can utilize the talents of teachers and other employees, empowering them to take initiative and increasing their confidence in their abilities.
#3 Establish Boundaries
As a school administrator, knowing when to disconnect from work priorities, particularly outside of office hours, can be challenging. However, what starts as responding to ‘just one more email‘ or spending ‘a few minutes’ reviewing proposed documents during personal time can quickly escalate into a flood of emails and an hour of skimming extraneous work-related documents. Over time, this can exacerbate feelings of burnout.
To mitigate this, establish designated periods for attending to work tasks while also allocating separate times for personal endeavors. This ensures a clear boundary between work and personal life.
During your dedicated personal time, make a concerted effort to adhere to these boundaries, rewarding yourself with self-care activities when you successfully disconnect from work-related devices and enjoy time at home. This practice promotes a healthier work-life balance and guards against the encroachment of work-related stress into your personal time.
#4 Incorporate Self-Care Practices
Did someone say self-care? The practice of replenishing your mental, emotional, and physical energies is essential for maintaining well-being, and it’s one of the most important ways to achieve a more fulfilling work-life balance when you’re off duty. It’s also a practice that has the potential to reduce your stress levels, increase your energy, and lower the likelihood of getting sick.
So, on the weekend or after you get home from work, set aside time for activities that rejuvenate you, such as:
- Meditating
- Exercising
- Participating in one of your favorite hobbies
- Treating yourself to a balanced (and tasty) meal
- Connecting with your family and friends
With a busy family and work life, sometimes it’s hard to make yourself a priority. We get it. Instead, try to think of self-care as an imperative task of vital importance on your to-do list: an item that’s crucial to the success of both your professional and personal life.
Become a Leader in Education With a Master’s Degree From UTPB
Whether you’re a seasoned educator seeking to advance your career in school administration or a newcomer to education, The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership that prepares students to become qualified principals in a K-12 setting.
In as little as one year, you can complete this 30-credit program, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to provide leadership, build effective instructional teams, ensure a high-quality and safe educational experience for students, and more.
UTPB offers affordable tuition, rolling admissions, and the flexibility to complete the coursework on your own timeline. Check out our site’s page to learn more, and when you’re ready, apply for a spot in our program!
Sources:
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health
While many skills are crucial to us as human beings, mastering a language is perhaps the most fundamental. It provides a framework for the communication skills that students will use throughout their lives. Learning a second language has also been proven beneficial, and bilingual individuals enjoy some unique opportunities and advantages.
Whether you’re currently a teacher or aspire to be one, you have the potential to empower countless students with the foundational skills they’ll need to succeed and fill the gaps in their linguistic abilities. If your students can’t speak English or are working toward fluency, you can guide them in acquiring that “global language” and its corresponding benefits.
Advantages of Being Bilingual
Here we’ll outline three key benefits of being bilingual, paying particular attention to English as a second language. As you read, think about how these advantages could impact your own students.
- Ability to Communicate in More Places
Over 1.4 billion people speak English, surpassing Mandarin Chinese as the most widely spoken language on the planet. It’s an official language in 67 countries and 27 non-sovereign entities, which include locales such as Guam, Gibraltar, and Bermuda. Countries where English is predominant can be found on three different continents.
These numbers serve to illustrate just how large a footprint English speakers have made upon the world. Though many other languages are spoken across the globe, English is a helpful language to know if you want to travel or move to another country. Communicative competence—the ability to successfully converse with a speaker of another language in more than single words—can greatly enhance any traveler’s or new resident’s experience.
- Immensely Expanded Career Potential
Today’s interconnected world gives individuals greater access to networking and job opportunities worldwide, and bilingual speakers can enjoy the ability to work, whether remotely or in person, in countries and territories where English is a primary language.
Critically, however, some of the most populous states from coast to coast—including Texas, California, and Florida—also have the highest numbers of Spanish speakers. These states may offer job opportunities in Spanish-language media and other professions in which Spanish is the primary language. Bilingual individuals can explore both sets of opportunities and apply to a wider range of jobs.
- Higher Earnings
English proficiency can clearly lead to more professional opportunities—but what about earnings? Sources like Forbes, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn agree that being bilingual can translate to higher pay:- Surveyed multilingual professionals said they earn 19% more than their monolingual colleagues.
- Bilingual employees earn about $20,951 more per year, at time of writing.
- Bilingual employees can earn from 5% to 20% more per hour.
Give Students a Path to These Benefits With Your Bilingual/ESL Degree
For many students, developing English proficiency is a key advantage that will enable them to live productive, rewarding lives. You can be instrumental in helping them gain access to these benefits by completing The University of Texas Permian Basin’s CAEP-accredited online Master of Arts in Bilingual/ESL Education program. Our 30-credit program encompasses the latest strategies, techniques, and technologies for teaching language in culturally diverse classrooms, and:
- Empowers you with marketable skills.
- Can be completed in as little as one year.
- Offers two degree concentrations:
- Master of Arts in Bilingual Education or
- Master of Arts in ESL Education.
- Prepares you for bilingual or ESL certification in Texas.
- Contact program coordinator Dr. Salgado for information on other states.
- Provides the flexibility to learn on your own schedule from nearly any location.
- Positions you to experience international networking opportunities of your own.
Ready to get started? Apply today!
Sources:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/5-reasons-why-english-global-language-today-lalit-sharma
https://medium.com/english-language-faq/why-did-english-become-the-global-language-9bbc14b532cd
https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/english-speaking-countries
https://storylearning.com/blog/english-speaking-countries