National Association of Special Education Teachers Resources: A Comprehensive Guide

Being an effective teacher, especially in special education, necessitates continuous learning and staying updated with the best practices. The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) is a valuable resource for special education professionals. It provides a wealth of online, practical, and teacher-friendly articles addressing various topics in the field. NASET also offers teachers the opportunity to contribute their knowledge and experience by writing articles for online e-publications. University teacher candidates can often access NASET resources for free through their professors' memberships.

Key Organizations for Special Education Professionals

Several organizations offer resources and support for special education teachers. Colorado Christian University encourages future teachers to actively participate in these professional organizations.

Council for Exceptional Children (CEC): The largest professional organization in special education, with over 27,000 members worldwide, including teachers, professors, parents, and others working with individuals with disabilities. CEC offers access to current research, journals, webinars, and online community boards for sharing ideas.
Christian Educators Association International (CEAI): Provides Christian teachers with tools to integrate their faith into the public school setting, offering a strong faith-career connection and a free membership option.
Council for Learning Disabilities (CLD): Supports professionals serving children and adults with learning disabilities through free online access to research articles and a national conference.
Association for Positive Behavior Support (APBS): Invaluable for teachers in SPED positions focusing on behavior.
International Association for Special Education (IASE): Connects teachers with research through an annual journal and a biannual conference held in different countries. IASE is ideal for SPED professionals working overseas or passionate about meeting the needs of children with disabilities worldwide.

Understanding Specific Learning Disabilities

Since a significant percentage of students in public schools are classified as having specific learning disabilities (SLD), teachers must understand how to accommodate their needs and differentiate instruction. Specific strategies can be applied to specific learning disabilities to facilitate individual achievement, progress, and learning.

Common Specific Learning Disabilities

Dyscalculia: Affects a person’s ability to understand numbers and learn math facts.
Dysgraphia: Affects handwriting ability and fine motor skills.
Dyslexia: Affects reading and related language-based processing skills. The International Dyslexia Association offers resources covering the definition, effects, signs, diagnosis, and treatment of dyslexia.
Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities: Difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues and may have poor coordination.
Oral / Written Language Disorder and Specific Reading Comprehension Deficit: Affects an individual’s understanding of what they read or spoken language.

Related Conditions

ADD/ADHD: Often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood, characterized by limited attention and hyperactivity. An Action Guide for ADHD provides next steps for patients, clinicians, and insurers.

Resources for Adult Literacy and Learning Disabilities

Adults engage in various literacy tasks in work, home, and community settings. Resources are available to guide professionals who teach adults in literacy programs and adults who want to improve their literacy skills. Information is also available regarding workplace, college, and other important aspects for adults with LD.

Assessment and Evaluation in Special Education

Evaluation is crucial for determining if a child has a learning disability. It involves gathering information from various sources about a child’s functioning and development in all areas. This process helps parents understand assessment and evaluation procedures.

Factors Beyond the Classroom

Toxic chemicals can affect the brain, impacting children and adults with LD. It is important to consider these factors when addressing learning disabilities.

Core Principles of Learning Disabilities

Understanding the core principles of learning disabilities is essential for addressing policy and practice in the field. The Learning Disabilities Association (LDA) uses these principles as a foundation for its work.

Early Childhood Intervention

Early intervention is critical for the long-term success of individuals with learning disabilities (LD) and/or ADHD. Early identification includes evaluation and treatment for families and their children under 3 years old who have, or are at risk for having, a disability or delay in speech, language, or hearing.

Educator Resources

Educator resource pages offer valuable information and support for teachers working with students with learning disabilities and ADHD.

Essential Legislation

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA): Signed in December 2015, ESSA amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, providing funding to K-12 schools to ensure quality public education for all students. It authorizes funds for professional development, instructional materials, resources to support educational programs, and parental involvement. ESSA replaced the No Child Left Behind Act of 2002.

High-Leverage Practices (HLPs)

High-Leverage Practices are essential for special education teachers and all teachers seeking to boost learning.

Read also: Eligibility for National Awards

Open Data Platform

The Department of Education's Open Data Platform (data.ed.gov) provides access to data on special education by state and district. This platform includes data on child count and environment.

Response to Intervention (RTI)

Response to Intervention (RTI) is a tiered approach to instructing all students. The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) provides an overview of the purpose, principles, and process of RTI. Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and RTI are often used interchangeably.

Key Components of RTI

Universal Screening: Identifying students who may be at risk for learning difficulties.
Progress Monitoring: Assessing student progress and making adjustments to instruction as needed.

Collaboration in Special Education

Collaboration among school professionals is crucial for effective special education. Co-teaching and coaching models can enhance specialized instruction in inclusive settings.

Additional Resources

Dr. David A. Kilpatrick: A nationally recognized expert in reading and dyslexia.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): A practice-oriented approach to understanding and developing new skills for children with autism.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973: Protects qualified individuals from discrimination based on their disability.
Traumatic Brain Injury Resources: Cover accommodations, modifications, assessment, assistive technology, and more.

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