Mandatory Qualification for Teachers of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments | MA/Postgraduate Diploma

Program Overview

The Mandatory Qualification for Teachers of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments is a blended learning program designed for qualified teachers to gain specialist skills and knowledge to work with children and young people with vision impairments. The program covers assessment, curriculum access, social and emotional development, and teaching methods. It is delivered through a combination of online learning materials, live tutorials, and study weekends.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Mandatory Qualification for Teachers of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments is a blended learning program designed for qualified teachers (QTS or QTLS) who want to gain specialist skills and knowledge to work with children and young people with vision impairments. The program aims to equip teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to make a difference in the classroom.

Objectives:

• To provide qualified teachers with specialist skills and knowledge in vision impairment education.
• To examine the social and emotional development of children and young people with vision impairments.
• To provide practical teaching experience and feedback from experienced professionals.

Outline:

The program is offered as a MA (Mandatory Qualification) or a PGDip (Postgraduate Diploma).

• Social and Emotional Development in Children and Young People with Vision Impairments: This module examines the social and emotional wellbeing of children and young people with vision impairments and the role of professionals in supporting their development.
• Special Studies in Special Education: This module allows for individual study in special education, focusing on a specific area of interest.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module. Some modules may include:

• Written assignments
• Presentations
• Portfolios
• Teaching placements
• Reflective comments on visits to various settings

Teaching:

The program is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining online learning materials with live tutorials, lectures, and study weekends.

Teaching Methods:

• Interactive teaching materials and study skills resources available via an online learning platform.
• Live online tutorials per module within tutor groups.
• Live workshops hosted by module leads.
• Access to the online library, research materials, and a community of students.

Careers:

The program prepares graduates for a variety of careers working with children and young people with vision impairments, including:

• Qualified Teacher of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments (QTVI)
• Lecturers of students with vision impairments
• Educational psychologists
• Leadership roles in vision impairment education

Other:

• The program is approved by the Department of Education.
• The University of Birmingham is the largest teacher training provider in the area of vision impairment in the UK.
• The program is strongly rooted in practice and makes links with mainstream settings, special schools, and sensory support services.
• The program is delivered online, with some scheduled activities.
• Students are required to attend four 2-day study weekends over the first two years of the program.
• The program requires a minimum of half a day per week for study and research.
• Graduates may progress to a PhD or EdD.

UK Mandatory Code 200H PGDip £4,200 Code 199H MA £4,200 Non Mandatory Code 210H MA £4,200 International Code 200H PGDip £7,770 Code 199H MA £7,770 Non Mandatory Code 210H MA £7,770