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Special education is a component of general education. Its
basic purpose is to assist students who do not benefit from
traditional educational programs. Special educators teach
and help others teach persons who differ, either positively
or negatively, from that which may be considered as "typical"
or "average." They individualize instruction based
on the competencies needed by these persons to ensure their
independence as contributing members of society.
The Department of Special Education at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa (UHM) offers a graduate program leading to
the MEd in special education and the PhD in education (specialization special education). Students enrolled in the programs learn about identifying and teaching
persons with disabilities. Two concentrations are available:
- special education teacher training with a specialization
in mild/moderate disabilities (mental retardation, specific
learning disabilities, emotional/behavior disorders), severe/multiple
disabilities, or deaf education;
- interdisciplinary studies for candidates wishing to work
in non-classroom-based services for persons with disabilities.
The program of study is individualized for all students,
based on their backgrounds and interests. In all cases, however,
there is a heavy emphasis on field experience to refine practical
skills in applied settings.
Graduates may work in public school or private delivery systems
as classroom teachers, resource managers, or consultants with
students with disabilities. In these roles, they make decisions
that affect the extent to which persons with special needs
participate in and profit from experiences designed to enhance
their educational, vocational and social skills. Graduates
of the teacher education option are eligible to receive the Hawai'i Professional Teacher Certification in Special Education.
Graduates of the interdisciplinary studies option do not receive
classroom certification but may seek employment in related
fields and services.
The special education program is accredited by the State
of Hawai'i under the State Approval of Teacher Education (SATE)
process, applying standards established by the National Association
of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification
(NASDTEC). The master of education degree program is accredited
by the Council of Exceptional Children (CEC).
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