
How Social Media May Keep Special Education Teachers in the Classroom
Author: Michelle Patterson
Special education teacher shortages continue to impact the millions of students with disabilities, with 98% of schools in 2019 reporting special education or related service shortages. Researchers found that new special education teachers are more likely to leave positions when they do not have the skills to meet demands placed upon them. What can special education teacher preparation programs do to support teacher candidates to persevere in an environment that may include inadequate support and professional isolation? The answer may be found in the phone in your hand. In our previous Research & Practice Brief “Preparing Preservice Teachers To Address Ableism through Social Media“, we focused on how social media facilitates learning and reflection in regards to ableism and teacher attitudes about disabilities.