intervention specialist

Intervention specialists work with students--from toddlers to those in their early 20's--who have a variety of disabilities. Most intervention specialists are found at the elementary, middle, and secondary school level. Intervention specialists design and modify instruction to meet a student's special needs. They also work with students who have other special instructional needs, including those who are gifted and talented.

Everyday, teachers design, assign work geared toward each student's ability, and grade papers and homework assignments; but what makes intervention specialists unique is the fact that these teachers are constantly involved with both behavioral and academic learning. These teachers help their students to develope emotionally and to be comfortable in most social situations.

As schools become more inclusive, special education teachers and general education teachers are working together in general education classrooms. Intervention specialist help general educators adapt curriculum materials and teaching techniques to meet the needs of students with disabilities.

SOME RELATED ORGANIZATIONS:

State Department of Eduaction
Ohio Departments Building 65 S Front Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215

American Federation of Teachers
555 New Jersey Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20001

National Clearingahouse for Professions in Special Education
Council for Exceptional Children
1920 Associaiton Dr
Reston, Virginia 22091

National Education Association
1201 16th Street, NW
Washiongton, DC 20036

SOME RELATED VALUES AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

  • helping others to leaarn and succeed
  • achievement
  • recognition and appreciation
  • intellectual growth
  • fondnessss for and dedication to human potential
  • sensitive, warm attitude
  • patience
  • enduraance
  • integrity
  • enthusiasm
  • objectivity

SOME RELATED OCCUPATIONS

Adapted Physical Education Teacher
Creative Arts
Occupational Arts
Physical Arts
Psychologist
Recreational Therapist
Rehabilitation Counselor
Social Worker
Speech Pathologist

SOME RELATED SKILLS:

  • Ability to persuade and influence others
  • Proficiency in interpersonal communication
  • Intellectual capacity to perform well in most undergraduate and graduate curriculums
  • Ability to relate to and interact with people of differing personalities and backgrounds
  • Aptitude for leadership
  • Ability to maintain composure in stressful situations
  • Understanding of educational theories
  • Broad background of knowledge
  • Ability to organize and maintain accurate records
  • Proficiency in one or more speciality areas

BLUFFTON COLLEGE CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTER 1996

SOURCES:College Majors and Ccareers, Occupational Outlook Handbook