What Does SPED Mean? Exploring the Meaning of Special Education

When it comes to education, the term “special education” (SPED) is widely used, but what does it actually entail? SPED is a type of education focused on the individual needs of a student to ensure that their learning experience is as effective as possible. SPED is aimed at providing personalized and alternative educational systems to accommodate students with learning, physical, and mental impairments. To better understand what the terms means, let’s explore more of the facets of SPED.

The Goals of Special Education

Special education is designed to meet the needs and abilities of students with physical, emotional, mental, and/or intellectual disabilities. In order to meet the needs of these students, specially designed instruction and services are administered. SPED also works together with providers and other individuals to build an education plan. Through this planning process, the specialists look to build an appropriate and effective learning environment for students that complements their disability.

SPED also recognizes and works on transitioning students with disabilities back into the mainstream educational program. By creating the right environment, students with special needs can live, work, and connect with the broader community on the same level as their peers.

Specialized Curriculum in SPED

Through SPED, various curriculum are adapted to meet the needs of students with special needs. Examples of such curriculum can be seen in modified subject material, braille reading and writing, sign language, assistive technology, and remedial instruction. Each of these forms of curriculum are used to allow the student to best learn in an environment that is appropriate for their disability. Other forms of changes to the curriculum can be seen in extended testing times, separate settings, and use of positive reinforcement.

Along with the special curriculum, SPED often provides related services such as Intensive Behavioral Interventions (IBI), speech therapy, counseling, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. These services aim to address the needs of students with extensive learning impairments.

Conclusion

Overall, SPED is an effective form of education aimed at providing students with physical, emotional, mental, and/or intellectual impairments with an appropriate and effective learning environment. Through specialized curriculum designed for the student’s needs and related services, SPED is able to serve individual students and their abilities. SPED does not only focus on the educational aspect, but looks to help provide a better transition for the student back into the main educational program and help them become a functioning member of the community.