By: Ranjan K Baruah
There are many children and individuals who need special care. Inclusive education is important so that no one is left out from the formal education system. When we talk about special education we hear terms like autism. It is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, irrespective of gender, race or socio-economic status. The term Autism Spectrum refers to a range of characteristics. We should know that globally about one in 100 children has autism. Though it is a challenge, evidence-based psychosocial interventions can improve communication and social skills, with a positive impact on the well-being and quality of life of both autistic people and their caregivers.
There is no doubt that over the past decade, major progress has been made towards increasing access to education generally, as well as for persons with autism specifically. The recent pandemic has brought more challenges as schools were closed which impacted students all over the world. Many students with autism have been especially hard hit and studies show that they have been disproportionately affected by disruptions to routines, as well as services and supports that they rely on.
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Throughout its history, the United Nations family has celebrated diversity and promoted the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities, including learning differences and developmental disabilities. In 2008, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities entered into force, reaffirming the fundamental principle of universal human rights for all. The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day (A/RES/62/139) to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.
When we talk about career then one of the options available for us in this regard is special education. Special education serves children with emotional, behavioural, or cognitive impairments or with intellectual, hearing, vision, speech, or learning disabilities; gifted children with advanced academic abilities; and children with orthopaedic or neurological impairments. Students with disabilities are likely to benefit from additional educational services such as different approaches to teaching, the use of technology, a specifically adapted teaching area, etc. When we talk about inclusive education and human rights means no is to be left out means there is demand for special educators.
A special education teacher is a professional who is engaged in teaching students with special needs. Special education teachers put forward special education in academic institutions. There are special courses like diploma and advanced diploma programmes for the aspirants who want to specialise in the field of special education. A special educator with a specialisation in autism spectrum provides learning support to students identified on the autism spectrum.
Aspirants may choose any stream to become a special educator after having special training or completing courses like B Ed in Special Education. Apart from qualification they must have skills like patience, passion, etc as they deal with special children. Special teachers are always respected as they are bringing inclusiveness amongst all through education. There shall be more demand for Autism Spectrum Disorder Special Educators as there is more focus on inclusive quality education for all around the world.
(The author is a career mentor and skill trainer and can be reached at 8473943734 or bkranjan@gmail.com)
