Adaptations, Modifications, and Creation: A Modern Approach to Teaching Students with Disabilities

This session is intended to provide strategies for teaching music to neurodivergent learners within the cntext of specialized classrooms. Attendees will discuss best practices in music education for students with disabilities, resources, and methods of delivery which are intended to connect students with curricular, behavioral, and action-based learning.

Session attendees will be asked to engage in the session through answering a series of questions with nearby attendees; these questions will prompt attendees to examine the teaching situation of themselves and others. Questions will pertain to teaching learners with exceptionalities with regards to teacher preparation through undergraduate teacher preparation programs, professional development sessions, continuing education, and administrative and district support. Attendees will have the opportunity to share personal experiences with regards to teaching students with exceptional needs and what challenges and/or supports they may have been presented with through any of the aforementioned avenues. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in various trial activities that cater to different learning styles, learning abilities, and content interests.