Vocational/Special Education Certification: An Analysis of State Policies and Practices. Policy Research and Resource Series: Document 10.

Overview & Synopsis

A study determined the existing vocational/special education certification policies and practices in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and trust territories. A survey instrument collected data from the 55 state vocational special-needs consultants. The response rate was 85 percent (47 persons). Conclusions were that most states do not issue vocational/special education certification for vocational and special education personnel; coursework and occupational work experience are primary requirements for certification; undergraduate and graduate coursework is used to satisfy requirements for extended certification; most states offer K-12 special education certification; postsecondary or adult special education certification is almost non-existent; very few states waive the occupational work experience requirement for vocational education certification; a limited number of states require vocational educators to complete special education courses for vocational certification; competency-based teacher certification is having an impact on certification policies and practices; materials are needed by state leadership and planning personnel to aid in developing vocational/special education policies and practices; and, a need exists for state, regional, and national level conferences to assist state personnel in developing, implementing, and evaluating vocational/special education policies and practices. (The instrument is appended.) (YLB)