Currently, there is a shortage of capable and trained special educators who are equipped to use special strategies in training intellectually challenged children, who need specially trained teachers. Special schools report that there is a distinct need for trained special educators. It is in this context that the V-Excel Educational Trust, a Chennai based non governmental organisation has come out with a one-year diploma course in special education.
A plus point for the course is the fact that it is recognised by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). The course has been structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of children with mental and developmental challenges such as autism. “Employment guarantee is practically 100 per cent as there is a great demand for trained special educators”, says Ajita Panshikar, Vice President, Strategic Development, V Excel. Successful candidates can take up jobs in special schools, regular schools, international schools, counselling and assessment units, remedial centres and therapy centres
Eligibility
The minimum eligibility for the course is a pass in higher secondary education, with good knowledge of English. Interested persons may contact V-Excel at V- Excel Educational Trust, I, Norton Second Street, Mandaveli, Chennai - 600 028. Tel: 044 24620243 / 044 24956373, or e-mail info@v-excel.org. Refer to website www.v-excel.org for more details.
The course will be handled by faculty members who are experts in their respective areas, the courses focus on theory and practice of instruction for children with mild to moderate disabilities like Autism, Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Mental Retardation. V-Excel offers short-term courses in various areas of special education and disabilities.
Course content and focus
The course covers effective strategies necessary for working with special children. The programme focuses on Medical etiology, Characteristics and Associated Conditions, Human Development, Child Psychology, Intelligence, behaviour modification, Communication, Sensory-motor and Self Help Skill training, Special Education and Curriculum Development, Remediation and Teaching Strategies and the Role of the family and the Community in the development and care of special children.
Besides theoretical knowledge, the course includes modules involving candidates to work with special children, to give the candidates hands-on training in catering to their education. On completion of the course, these trained special educators will be equipped to screen children and conduct functional assessments, develop curriculum and interventions based on individual needs, learn and apply principles from psychology for effective management and educate the family of the special child regarding availability of services and also to promote inclusion of special persons in the mainstream.
A variety of educational strategies are used, such as lectures and seminars, workshops, discussion groups, experiential methods (group-work, reflection, drama, art, etc.), tutorials, presentations by participants and consultation in relation to the practice of teaching. At the end of the course, students are offered help in resume writing, portfolio compilation, and job placements. Students also receive ongoing support after they become alumni of the institution.