Strengthening Special Educator Preparation through Global Partnerships

Abstract

Global partnerships offer a unique opportunity to strengthen special educator preparation by transforming perspectives of teacher candidates and building skilled teacher scholars who are knowledgeable global citizens. This article spotlights two models of international collaboration designed to enhance special education teacher preparation: (a) faculty-led short-term study abroad and (b) global student teaching. Both models foster the development of skills critical to special educators’ success, including flexibility, leadership, intercultural competencies, as well as high-leverage practice use. Stakeholder efforts, benefits, and potential barriers in implementing international collaboration within special education teacher preparation are highlighted. By drawing attention to challenges and insights from teacher candidates, faculty, and staff, we aim to provide practical and replicable strategies for teacher educators seeking to internationalize aspects of their special education teacher preparation programs.