Special Education Teaching Undergraduate Program is a four-year undergraduate program that aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address the special education needs of individuals. The program provides students who want to specialize in the field of special education with a comprehensive education in educational strategies, behavior management and individualized education programs for different disability groups. During the program, students learn the ethical, legal and professional standards required by the special education teaching profession.
The academic content and curriculum of the program includes basic educational sciences courses as well as courses specific to the field of special education. Students gain in-depth knowledge about the developmental characteristics of individuals with special needs, learning processes and effective teaching methods for these individuals. Courses in the program include field-specific subjects such as Inclusion in Special Education, Behavior Assessment and Management, Education for the Mentally Handicapped, Education for the Hearing Impaired, Education for the Visually Impaired, Education for Autism Spectrum Disorder. In addition, students learn how to use educational technologies and the role of technology in special education.
In terms of teaching methods and teaching materials, the program adopts an approach that combines theory and practice. Students reinforce their theoretical knowledge through lectures, group work, projects and seminars. Applied courses and internships allow students to gain real-world experience. In this process, they have the opportunity to apply what they have learned by working directly with individuals with special educational needs. Teaching materials include up-to-date academic resources, case studies, educational software and assistive technologies.
In terms of career and employment opportunities, graduates of the Special Education Teaching Undergraduate Program have a wide range of job opportunities. Graduates can work in public and private schools, rehabilitation centers, special education and rehabilitation centers, hospitals and various institutions serving individuals with special educational needs. In addition, they can choose to pursue an academic career and continue their master's and doctoral programs. They can work as consultants in the public and private sectors in the process of developing and implementing special education policies.
Internship and practice opportunities constitute an important part of the program. Students put their theoretical knowledge into practice by doing internships in schools and institutions during certain periods of their education. These internships provide students with professional experience and prepare them for professional life. Students collaborate with teachers and other education professionals during their internship periods and develop skills such as classroom management, lesson planning and creating individualized education programs.
The Special Education Teacher Education Undergraduate Program offers a comprehensive and in-depth education for individuals who wish to work in the field of special education. The program helps students develop empathy, patience and understanding towards individuals with special needs, while learning professional and ethical standards. Individuals who complete this program are ready to contribute to society as qualified and well-equipped teachers in the field of special education.