Morningside University Special Education Professor Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

Morningside University's Sharon Walker School of Education offers various degree and endorsement programs designed to prepare students for licensure as educators, aligning with the licensure standards set by the Iowa Department of Education. These programs cater to individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge and practice in teaching students with disabilities more effectively. This article delves into the requirements for becoming a special education professor at Morningside University, considering the broader context of teacher and paraeducator requirements in Iowa, as well as the specific programs offered at Morningside.

Understanding the Iowa Education Landscape

Before exploring the Morningside University specific requirements, it's crucial to understand the general landscape of educators in Iowa.

Types of Educators in Iowa

Iowa recognizes various types of educators, including teachers, counselors, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and psychologists. These professionals may work directly in schools or within Area Educational Association settings.

Defining a Teacher in Iowa

A teacher in Iowa is defined as a professional educator with a thorough understanding of content, teaching methodologies, scholastic principles, and developmental patterns. They also demonstrate an understanding of individual differences to guide learning and create a supportive and safe learning environment. A teacher's responsibilities include preparing and delivering lessons, providing feedback, managing classroom materials, navigating coursework, and collaborating with other professionals, including parents.

Pathways to Becoming a Teacher in Iowa

Aspiring teachers in Iowa can follow two primary pathways: the traditional pathway and the alternative licensure pathway.

Read also: Affording Morningside University

Traditional Pathway

Iowa has 29 colleges and universities offering traditional educator preparation programs. These programs typically offer both face-to-face and online courses. The traditional pathway involves attending classes focused on content knowledge and teaching methods, participating in supervised clinical experiences within PK-12 schools, and completing a 14-week student teaching assignment.

Alternative Licensure Pathway

The alternative licensure pathway offers three internship-based programs. These programs are designed for adults holding a bachelor's degree (or higher) in a non-education field.

Paraeducator Roles and Requirements

A paraeducator works under the supervision of a teacher, assisting in the design and delivery of education and related programs. Other titles for educational aides include paraprofessional, educational aide, associate aide, or instructional aide. Paraeducators can pursue formal certification by meeting specific requirements, including:

A high school diploma or GED.
Completion of a 90-hour preparation program, including clinical experiences.
Certification in specific concentration area(s).

Other Professional Educators

Besides teachers and paraeducators, other professional educators play crucial roles in Iowa's education system. These include counselors, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and psychologists, who may be licensed through a Statement of Professional Recognition from the BOEE (based on licensure through the Iowa Department of Public Health) or a Professional Service License from the BOEE.

Morningside University's Special Education Programs

Morningside University offers various programs designed to prepare educators for the field of special education. These programs are designed for elementary or secondary education professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills to teach students with disabilities more effectively. Iowa teachers can also pursue a Special Education Instructional Strategist I or II Endorsement, utilizing coursework completed in these degree programs.

Program Features

These programs focus on:

Orientation to graduate education programs and readiness for online learning (completed during the student’s first semester of enrollment).
Overview of approaches to educational research and pertinent educational theoretical frameworks.
Using foundational methods of design and analysis, students conduct action research related to special education.
Expanding the use of technology tools in teaching situations and includes an action inquiry project using a technology-infused solution.

Admission Requirements

A minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale is required for admission to these programs.

Endorsement Programs

Morningside University offers a selection of six endorsement programs tailored to individual needs and career goals. Adding an endorsement to an Iowa teaching license enhances an educator's professional career. The final course for an endorsement typically involves an Internship or a capstone experience, completed after fulfilling all other endorsement requirements. Students must submit an online placement request form to complete an Internship, Field Experience, or Practicum in a school, in addition to being fully admitted to the Graduate Program. Prerequisites courses vary by endorsement area.

Online Elementary Education Bachelor’s Completion Program

Morningside University also provides an Online Elementary Education Bachelor’s Completion Program designed for non-traditional students and working adults seeking a flexible path to becoming an elementary education teacher for grades K - 6.

Teacher Intern Programs

Morningside also provides Teacher Intern programs designed for career changers. Use your existing bachelor’s degree in any field to become a teacher for students with behavior disorders and learning disabilities, or for students with severe intellectual disabilities.

Initial Licensure Programs

Morningside’s online initial licensure programs are designed for working adults interested in becoming classroom teachers.

Deciphering the Requirements for a Special Education Professor at Morningside University

While the provided information doesn't explicitly detail the requirements for a special education professor at Morningside University, it does provide a strong foundation for inferring those requirements. We can deduce the following:

Advanced Education: A professorship typically requires a terminal degree in the relevant field. In this case, a doctorate (Ph.D. or Ed.D.) in Special Education or a closely related field is almost certainly a prerequisite.
Experience: Substantial experience in the field of special education is crucial. This would likely include experience as a special education teacher, ideally across different age groups and disability categories. Experience in curriculum development, assessment, and program evaluation would also be highly valued.
Research and Publication: Professors are typically expected to contribute to the body of knowledge in their field through research and publication. A strong record of peer-reviewed publications in reputable special education journals is essential.
Teaching Experience at the University Level: Prior experience teaching special education courses at the university level is highly desirable. This demonstrates the candidate's ability to effectively convey complex concepts to students and to design and deliver engaging and rigorous coursework.
Knowledge of Iowa Education Standards: A thorough understanding of the Iowa Department of Education's licensure standards and special education regulations is vital. This ensures that the professor can effectively prepare students for licensure and practice in Iowa schools.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Given Morningside University's emphasis on a "dynamic environment, diverse interactions, and sense of purpose," a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in special education is essential. This includes the ability to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of disabilities.
Alignment with Morningside's Mission: A successful candidate would need to demonstrate a clear understanding of and commitment to Morningside University's mission and values. This includes a dedication to student success, a passion for teaching, and a desire to contribute to the university community.
Licensure and Endorsements: Possession of, or eligibility to obtain, relevant Iowa teaching licenses and endorsements in special education would be a significant asset.
Practical Experience: The professor should have experience in the field, through research, teaching and or internship programs.
Technological tools: The professor should have experience in expanding the use of technology tools in teaching situations and includes an action inquiry project using a technology-infused solution.
Research Experience: The professor should have experience in Overview of approaches to educational research and pertinent educational theoretical frameworks.

Additional Considerations

Networking: Actively participating in professional organizations and building relationships with other special education professionals in Iowa and beyond can enhance a candidate's visibility and credibility.
Grant Writing: The ability to secure grant funding to support research and program development can be a significant asset.
Collaboration: The ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, school districts, and community organizations is crucial for success in this role.

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