Training Teachers To Participate in the Regular Education Initiative.

Overview & Synopsis

Results of a national survey of state certification standards for cross-training of regular and special education teachers (n=51, including the District of Columbia) are analyzed relative to implementation of the Regular Education Initiative, a proposal that stresses increased responsibility by regular teachers in the education of handicapped children and more cooperation between regular and special education generally. Training requirements including both separate courses and content embedded in existing coursework were reported. Specific findings included: 24 states required that special education content be included in the regular education training program but only 15 required a specific course; of these less than half required training in instructional methods for special needs learners and only a few states required teaching experience with handicapped children. An additional survey of 13 California State University System teacher training programs is reported, as California requires special education teachers to hold regular teaching credentials. Recommendations include: all teachers should have training in identifying and developing appropriate educational programs for special needs learners; all teachers should have preservice teaching experience with both handicapped and nonhandicapped learners; and special education teachers should be trained and experienced regular classroom teachers. Includes 12 references. (DB)