EDUC 588 – Disability in Education Policy and Law

What is differentiated instruction?

Carol Ann Tomlinson, an author and teacher regarded as a pioneer in differentiated instruction, describes it as “a way of thinking about teaching which suggests that … we teach with an eye on the student.” She emphasizes four key pillars of differentiated instruction: Content, Process, Product and Learning Environment.

Does differentiated instruction require more work for teachers?

The amount of additional preparation required is open to debate, but most educators agree that successfully employing differentiated instruction does require building relationships with students to know their strengths, challenges and interests.

What are the biggest benefits of differentiated learning?

Advocates contend that by connecting subject matter and learning goals to individual student strengths, interests and learning styles, differentiated instruction can inspire students to be more engaged and motivated, thereby creating improved learning outcomes by inspiring them to take on more responsibility for their own learning.

Is an MEd degree or diploma earned online different than one that is earned in an on-campus program?

No. The degree you’ll earn as an online graduate student is the same as that earned by campus-based students. The online courses embody the same learning outcomes and high level of academic excellence, educational rigor and content delivery.

Is standardized testing like the GRE required for acceptance to a Master of Education program?

It depends. Though some Master of Education programs do require a GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) for admission, there are many others, like the University of San Diego’s MEd Online program, that do not.

Does a Master of Education degree include a preliminary licensure or lead to a teaching credential?

Typically, it does not. Many MEd programs require the degree candidates to have already earned a teaching credential or to work in roles that do not require a teaching credential.

What is an MEd?

MEd, or a Master of Education degree, is a post-baccalaureate degree for educators looking to expand their career in education, often beyond the classroom.

What should an inclusive classroom look like?

An inclusive classroom doesn’t look all that different from any other general education classroom. Students of all abilities and from diverse backgrounds learn alongside one another and receive the same level of respect and recognition. What makes the classroom truly inclusive, though, is that:

• The primary focus is on students’ abilities, rather than their disabilities
• General education and special education teachers work together to teach, support and inspire students
• Curriculum is based on Universal Design for Learning principles
• Teachers use a variety of techniques and resources to connect with students’ individual learning styles

How do I help a student with anxiety?

Anxiety manifests in many different ways. Know how to recognize a student’s escalating anxiety and how to intervene in a way that helps them feel safe and does not call attention to it. If the student has a fear of public speaking or group discussion, alter your lesson plans to help reduce the student’s anxiety or make them feel more comfortable participating. If the anxiety is pervasive, allow the student to take breaks or opportunities to de-stress. Most importantly, ask the student how they would feel most supported in class.

Are rates of depression rising in school children?

According to the CDC, 5.4% of children aged 6–17 were diagnosed with anxiety or depression in 2003, a percentage that had risen to 9.4% by 2019. From 2016–2019, 20.9% of adolescents aged 12–17 reported having a major depressive episode. Regardless of incidence, the rising numbers may be a result of increased general knowledge and awareness of mental health.

What is the difference between a mental disorder and behavioral disorder?

Behavioral disorders refer to conditions wherein a student appears to make a conscious choice with their behavior or responses, such as defying a teacher, lying, engaging in disordered eating or bullying. While these behaviors may be incredibly difficult for an individual to control, they are not considered involuntary. By comparison, mental disorders like schizophrenia, Tourette’s Syndrome and bipolar disorder are all conditions that cause involuntary behaviors.

Mental and behavioral issues often go hand-in-hand; someone who suffers from depression or bipolar disorder could develop behaviors like anorexia, self harm or oppositional defiance.

How do I get started with the application process?

Click here to watch a series of short videos explaining how to fill out your online application.

If you are ready to apply to a program now start here.

It’s always best to connect with an Enrollment Advisor, who can also help you navigate the application details as well as help you order your official transcripts.

Do you need to have a science or math background to be accepted into the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics) specialization?

No. At USD we are committed to helping close the STEAM gap. When reviewing applications, we look for individuals who demonstrate a commitment or passion for the field.

Does the program provide a certification for special education teachers?

If you choose the Special Education and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) specialization, you will learn a wealth of knowledge that in most cases is more in-depth than special education certification programs.

What accreditations does the online USD MEd program possess?

The USD MEd program is regionally accredited by WASC (the Western Association of Schools and Colleges). Regional accreditation is a very important consideration when deciding on a program because it is the most widely accepted in terms of transfer credit and eligibility for employer tuition assistance programs. It is typically awarded to degree-oriented, nonprofit or state-owned institutions (as opposed to for-profit schools or religious schools that offer vocational or technical training).

Is it possible to be accepted into the program and work through the courses without being a teacher at the same time?

While you do not have to be a teacher simultaneously, you do have to have access to a classroom in order to apply what you’ve learned. Our program focuses on helping to provide skills that educators can apply immediately in their classrooms or places of work.

Is specific standardized testing like the GRE required for acceptance to the Master of Education program?

No, the GRE is not a requirement. The admissions committee takes a comprehensive approach when reviewing all applications.

Is the online Master of Education program open to students from outside the United States?

Yes! We have students and alumni from all over the world.

Does the online Master of Education program include a preliminary licensure or does it lead to a teaching credential?

It does not lead to a teaching credential. Our program requires that students have two years of teaching experience. As a result, most students already have a teaching credential or they work in roles that do not require a teaching credential.

Does the USD MEd Online program include a teaching credential?

No, the program only offers the Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree. In addition, we cannot fulfill requests for recommending students for an administrative credential and teacher prep/credential program following completion of the M.Ed. Online program.