Role of General Educators in a Multidisciplinary Team for Learners with Special Needs

Abstract

We have witnessed, over the past century, an evolution in the manner in which students with disabilities are educated. Indeed, the quality of education students with special needs receive, in many ways, may be more aptly termed a revolution – from a legal and pedagogical perspective. The tremendous strides special education has made during this period of time has resulted in the current situation in which students with special needs are placed in the least restrictive environment, which often is an inclusive classroom in which general education and special education teachers work together in a collaborative, co-teaching environment. This chapter traces the events, legislation, and court cases that provide the historical context for this situation. In addition, models and essential components of co-teaching are examined, as well as the roles and requisite skills of general education and special education co-teachers. Of critical importance, in the success of co-teaching, is the need for special education and general education teachers to approach the curriculum planning and instructional processes in a collaborative and cooperative manner in order to achieve optimum results from the resulting co-teaching partnership. Finally, the assessment of special education and general education co-teaching efficacy is discussed, specifically through the use of three assessment rubrics used to evaluate co-teaching, co-planning, and co-assessment.

Citation

Antonio Cantu, D. (2015), "Role of General Educators in a Multidisciplinary Team for Learners with Special Needs", Interdisciplinary Connections to Special Education: Important Aspects to Consider (Advances in Special Education, Vol. 30A), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 35-57. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0270-40132015000030A003