Online Early Childhood Special Education Classes and Courses

Online early childhood special education courses are offered in online graduate degree programs by some universities. Courses are often aimed at teachers looking for specialized training. Students sometimes use coursework for credit towards early childhood special education certification.

Online Early Childhood Special Education Course Overview

Many online master's and bachelor's degree programs, such as a Master of Science in Education or a Bachelor of Science in Elementary/Special Education, offer online classes addressing early childhood special education. These courses are often taught as part of early education or special education degree programs and are sometimes used for credit towards early childhood special education certification.
Students gain knowledge about infant, toddler and preschool age children and address special needs that may include learning English as a second language, learning disabilities or gifted students learning in regular classroom settings. Students may go on to careers in education or childcare. Students pursuing careers in special education will require licensure in special education. Licensure requirements vary by state.

Course Requirements

Students need access to the Internet for their online coursework along with an active e-mail account. Some courses require video and audio capabilities, including a CD-ROM drive. Schools may ask students to complete coursework and engage in discussions with classmates through an online simulated classroom like Blackboard. Some universities stipulate that students complete student teaching experiences at the end of the degree program.

List of Online Early Childhood Special Education Courses

Introduction to Special Education Course

This online course discusses the history of special education, the development of specialized teaching techniques and federal and state regulations. The course likely addresses special education needs for children in both primary and secondary school. Students discuss characteristics of different populations and disabilities and learn corresponding effective teaching techniques. Students may be required to participate in on-campus training simulations.

Classroom Management Course

This course introduces students to theories behind behavior management in the classroom. The course discusses basic behavior theories, including positive reinforcement and motivation theory, highlighting age appropriate strategies for early education. Students learn the philosophical origins of management techniques and their effects by means of case studies.

Early Education Curriculum Course

Students learn proper techniques for designing curriculum for young children. The course includes a discussion of early childhood development. Students develop learning materials and may be required to train on-campus in infant, toddler and preschool settings.

Teaching Gifted Students Course

Students learn how to meet the learning needs of different pupils in this online course. The course introduces curriculum adaptations as well as behavior management techniques that students may use to keep gifted children engaged in the regular classroom.