Online ISSN: 2325-7466
2006
Triannual
National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)
United States

Articles

Preparing Early Childhood Educators for Blending Practices in Inclusive Classrooms

  • Mary Donegan-Ritter, Ph. D. (Author) University of Northern Iowa image/svg+xml
    Mary Donegan-Ritter, Ph.D., an Associate Professor at the University of Northern Iowa teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in early childhood, special education and elementary education. Her research interests include the professional development of early childhood teachers in inclusive preschool programs, supporting social interactions and preschool STEM education.
  • Frank Kohler, Ph. D. (Author) University of Northern Iowa
    Frank W. Kohler, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Northern Iowa. His research interests include positive behavioral support, interventions for young children with autism and related disabilities, and teacher collaboration and coaching.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.64546/jaasep.339
Abstract
Preparing early childhood teachers for inclusion requires the blending of high quality developmentally appropriate practices with environmental adaptations and individualized instructional practices. This article describes how a field experience was redesigned to incorporate evidence based practices in teaming and collaboration, environment and instruction. A STEM learning center was the context for this case study on a preservice teacher and preschool child with special needs. Changes to the physical, social and temporal environment set the stage for promoting communication goals and led to increased child engagement and language use. Implications and recommendations for how to structure unified early childhood/early childhood special education teacher preparation programs for blended practices are discussed.
Keywords
Blended Learning, Case Studies, Developmentally Appropriate Practices, Early Childhood Education, Evidence Based Practice, Field Experience Programs
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How to Cite
Donegan-Ritter, M., & Kohler, F. W. (2017). Preparing Early Childhood Educators for Blending Practices in Inclusive Classrooms. Journal of the American Academy of Special Education Professionals, 12(2), 104-117. https://doi.org/10.64546/jaasep.339

Spring/Summer 2017

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  • Article Type Articles
  • Submitted April 6, 2017
  • Published June 15, 2017
  • Issue Spring/Summer 2017
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