Art Educators are expected to be able to understand the diverse learning needs of all students. Students in this course will discover how to adapt their own curricula and collaborate with special needs teachers to help students succeed in the art classroom. Through course work and field experience students will build a foundation of knowledge for working with children and youth with special needs. Students will develop new instructional strategies for making visual art more accessible for students with exceptionalities and a plan to incorporate accessibility strategies into their daily teachings. In a seminar format, the students realize the course objectives through participatory means. Students are expected to write critical essays, conduct research and field experience, and to participate in weekly small and large format discussion groups. Online technology is utilized in addition to lectures, videos, and other forms of media. This course has a field experience component of 20 hours.

This course will focus on the development of professional practices for entry-level art educators who are involved in their student teaching practicum. Projects will include presentations, relevant readings, assessment practices, mock interviews, case studies, visiting speakers, and preparing materials for applications in the field of art education. Students will be expected to complete weekly assignments. Goals for excellence in teaching and State and National standards are investigated and addressed.