Learning and Behavior Disorders and Elementary Education, B.A.

Requirements for Program

The Learning and Behavior Disorders and Elementary Education teacher preparation program supports the UK educator preparation unit’s theme of Research and Reflection for Learning and Leading. Learning and Behavior Disorders and Elementary education teachers are prepared to assess, plan, and teach based on what they learn from their students and to conduct continuous self-reflection in order to improve their teaching. The standards and competencies on which the Learning and Behavior Disorders and Elementary Education program is based are those prescribed by The Council for Exceptional Children and The Kentucky Teacher Performance Standards. The B.A. in Education program in Learning and Behavior Disorders and Elementary Education requires completion of: (1) the UK Core requirements; (2) specified course work in Related Studies and Professional Education; and (3) specified course work in the Learning/Behavior Disorders (LBD) and Elementary Education areas of specialization. Students graduating from the certification program obtain two Kentucky teacher certificates in Elementary Education (grades P-5) and in Learning/Behavior Disorders (grades P-12). It is possible to complete this certificate program in four years.

Continuous Assessment

1. All students in the Learning and Behavior Disorders and Elementary Education Program (LD/ELED) are expected to meet the standards and rules for Admission, Retention, and Completion from Teacher Education Programs as set forth in the section “Admission, Retention, and Completion from Teacher Education Programs”.
2. Assessment at the Point of Entry to the LD/ELED Program. The admission process provides the first point for formal assessment of the competencies outlined in the Initial Certification Program Folio for the program. Students who apply for admission must complete an admission portfolio which includes the requirements for both the Special Education Program and the Elementary Education Program. At a minimum, this includes: (a) meet the requirement for admission to the Teacher Education Program; (b) have successfully completed a special education survey course (EDS 375 ) and have completed or be enrolled in initial special education course work; (c) a “best piece” sample of writing which demonstrates the ability to research a topic in some depth; (d) evidence of having completed 30 hours of community service with early elementary age children, including a written reflection on the experience; (e) a written autobiography; and (f) the ability to articulate a philosophy of teaching and document  experiences with persons with disabilities in an initial portfolio and an entrance interview. At the time of entry, students will be required to complete an on-demand writing task. For students that have limited experience with individuals with disabilities, it is strongly recommended to be enrolled in the initial practicum when applying (EDS 301 ).
3. On-going Assessment. Once a student is admitted to the program, they meet with an advisor to plan the remainder of the program. Prior to the student teaching semester, they must present a portfolio of progress toward meeting program competencies in the courses completed. This portfolio will be comprehensive and include components from both the Special Education and Elementary Education programs. At a minimum, it will include: (a) philosophy of education statement (modified as candidates move through the program); (b) “best piece” samples from course work that show evidence of content knowledge, pedagogical content knowledge, and effective practice (given the candidates’ level of experience); and (c) evidence of competence in instructional applications of technology and systems of information management.
4. Completion Assessment. At the exit assessment, students must document that they have met all program competencies and the successful completion of 70 days of student teaching across three placements: elementary, middle special education learning and behavior disorders, high school special education learning and behavior disorders.

Statement on Student Teaching

Teacher certification in Learning Behavior Disorders and Elementary Education requires the successful completion of student teach­ing in multiple public school placements for students across a variety of grade levels and ability levels. Students completing Special Education teacher preparation will register for:

EDS 551 STUDENT TEACHING IN SPECIAL EDUCATION AND ELEMENTARY EDUCATION SETTINGS  Credit(s): 12.