东密歇根大学

The Michigan Department of Education endorses special education teachers in discrete educational categories of disability, one of which is Cognitive Impairment. A student qualifies for the cognitive impairment educational category based on assessments of intelligence, achievement, and adaptive behavior. As a Michigan Teacher with this endorsement, you can teach across the spectrum of Cognitive Impairment, from mild to severe multiple disabilities. In your program, you will focus on effective teaching and learning practices that promote academic, emotional and personal growth for students with cognitive impairments.

Learn

This major prepares students to successfully teach elementary general education students and youth with Cognitive Impairments throughout a variety of K-12 settings. Students master the skills necessary for assessing, teaching and modifying instruction and curricula for students with Cognitive Impairment. This includes using research-based strategies to promote the development of language, reading, writing, spelling, calculating and thinking. Skill development continues as students learn to plan and implement instruction in a variety of settings and domains and use assistive technology to support students wherever and whenever it is needed. Students will also learn how to develop and maintain collaborative relationships and partnerships with parents/families/caregivers, educators, administrators, consultants, and community service providers.

Opportunities

Majors in the area of Cognitive Impairment will complete 100 hours of clinical experience with students with Cognitive Impairment prior to their special education student teaching placement. Students will be provided with opportunities to both observe and work with students in self-contained classrooms, resource rooms, and inclusive settings in urban, rural, and suburban schools. In addition, given the unique range of educational settings in Michigan, students can experience a center-based setting. Most of these experiences will be associated with specific classes and assignments.

An option exists for majors to complete an additional 11 credit hours of coursework and earn an Emotional Impairment teaching endorsement along with their Cognitive Impairment teaching endorsement.