Master of Science in Special Education
Master of Science in Special Education

Program Learning Outcomes

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Admission Information:

Alana Matuszewski, Director of Graduate Admissions
gradadmissions@newpaltz.edu

 

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Early Childhood Program Outcomes

Teacher candidates who successfully complete the Special Education Master’s Degree program (emphasis in Early Childhood Special Education) will develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to:

Content Knowledge

●    Demonstrate content mastery of the a) legal, social, and historical foundations of the field of special education, b) characteristics of learners with disabilities, c) general and specialized curricula, d) state/national, professional and ethical standards; and e) current policies and issues within the field of special education.

Pedagogical Practice

●    Select, implement, and evaluate curriculum, instructional materials and practices, and behavior management techniques needed to promote active student engagement and maximize student learning--including a variety of developmentally and contextually appropriate evidence-based practices and culturally responsive practices.


Assessment of P-12 Learning

●    Design, administer, score, and interpret informal and formal assessments that inform the educator’s comprehensive understanding of a student’s interests, strengths and needs, and guide educational decisions.

Planning

●    Plan universally designed lessons in the core content areas that a) address appropriate standards, b) include differentiated instructional strategies, c) utilize assistive and adaptive technologies (where appropriate), and d) promote the valuing of diversity, respect, and inclusion in safe, democratic, and equitable learning environments.

Dispositions

●    Demonstrate the use of professional ethical principles and professional practice standards; conduct themselves as reflective practitioners; participate effectively in institutional change, social justice, and student advocacy; and establish positive, professional interpersonal relationships with students, families, colleagues, staff and administrators.

Critical Thinking

●    Not only develop their own critical thinking skills by evaluating their methods for planning, implementing and assessing students with disabilities, but also provide opportunities to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills of their students across the disciplines.


Information Management

●    Use available instructional technologies to extend and/or enhance instructional assessment, planning, and delivery activities designed for students with disabilities.

●    Support the social, environmental, and academic needs of students with disabilities through considerations of assistive and augmentative technologies.



Childhood Special Education Program Outcomes

Teacher candidates who successfully complete the Special Education Master’s Degree program (emphasis in Childhood Special Education) will develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to:

Content Knowledge


Pedagogical Practice


Assessment of P-12 Learning


Planning


Dispositions


Critical Thinking


Information Management  

 


Adolescent Special Education Learning Outcomes

Teacher candidates who successfully complete the Special Education Master’s Degree program (emphasis in Adolescent Special Education) will develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to:

Content Knowledge


Pedagogical Practice


Assessment of P-12 Learning


Planning


Dispositions


Critical Thinking


Information Management