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 Physical Impairment and Students with Other Health Impairments (PI/OHI). A student qualifies for the PI/OHI educational category based on a medical assessment of severe orthopedic impairment for PI and a medical assessment of a chronic or acute health problem for OHI, which adversely affects educational performance. In your program, you will focus on effective teaching and learning practices that promote academic, emotional and personal growth for students with PI/OHI.

Learn

This major prepares students to successfully teach elementary general education students and youth with PI/OHI throughout a variety of K-12 settings. Students master the skills necessary for assessing, teaching and modifying instruction and curricula for students with PI/OHI. This includes adaptations and modifications to the teaching and learning environment, monitoring student progress and designing classroom settings and physical arrangements to facilitate and enhance opportunities for students to inclusively, participate, interact and learn safely and effectively. Further, skills are learned that relate to managing and monitoring the use of orthotics, communication devices and/or equipment for lifting and seating the student with PI/OHI. Finally, learning skills related to communicating student progress, performance, health issues and advocacy are an important part of the program.

Opportunities

Majors in the area of PI/OHI will complete 100 hours of clinical experience with students with PI/OHI 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.