How a Montclair State University program is preparing educators to create a better learning experience for students with disabilities

IMPROVING VIRTUAL LEARNING

ARTICLE COURTESY OF MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY

In response to the shift in teachers' professional development, from how to use technology to how to teach with technology, Montclair State University launched a Virtual Learning for Students with Disabilities certificate program in 2020, to better equip educators with these critical skills.

Teachers in the program discover new technologies, as they redesign curricula and instruction for a more accessible, high-quality virtual learning environment. The immediately applicable skills they acquire through the program, will allow them to better guide students through virtual learning and prevent them from falling behind.

Classes are taught by practicing special educators who are also technology leaders in their schools, and experienced adjunct faculty in the Department of Teaching and Learning.

"As educators, we were all challenged by the abrupt shift to online instruction brought on by the pandemic," says Montclair Associate Professor Jennifer Goeke. "This program is not just about learning new apps and programs; it's about understanding how to use technology to create an interesting, inviting and engaging virtual classroom for all students."

THE PROGRAM

The Virtual Learning for Students with Disabilities online graduate certificate is a two-course, six-credit program offered fully online.

The courses are geared toward teachers seeking to understand how to use technology as a seamless part of their teach

ing practice in order to maximize the learning experiences of students, including those with disabilities, across a range of education settings.

Those who complete the certificate program will also understand the legislative and policy mandates for utilization of technology for students with disabilities, and be able to implement various hardware and software tools to increase student learning, including disability-specific assistive technology applications.

MEETING THE MOMENT

Educators who have completed our graduate certificate program have learned strategies and resources that are useful far beyond a remote or virtual setting.

One student of the program, Melissa Becker, said, "When I first decided to take this course, I was under the assumption that the materials taught in this class would assist me in the remote learning setting. But after taking this course, I have learned about different strategies and resources that I can use inside and outside of my classroom, to help my students learn to the best of their abilities. Technology continues to grow and I have learned just how beneficial it can be to use in the classroom." •