The PECT Exam Special Education PreK-8 is designed to assess the knowledge and readiness of aspiring special education teachers in Pennsylvania. In Module 1, candidates are tested on a wide range of foundational concepts and professional practices that are essential for success in the field of special education.

This module, titled “Foundations and Professional Practice,” covers various key areas that special education teachers need to understand and apply in their roles. Here’s an overview of the important topics addressed in Module 1:

SUBAREA I—FOUNDATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

In this section, you need to understand the historical, philosophical, and legal foundations of special education. You should be familiar with major contributors to the field, historical developments, and various behavior models. Additionally, grasp the significance of federal legislation such as IDEA, Section 504, along with state rules. Comprehending current issues and trends in special education, avoiding inappropriate placements, implementing specially designed instruction, and adhering to ethical and professional conduct are all vital. You’ll also learn how to advocate effectively for students with disabilities and continually improve your instructional practices and cultural competence.

Understand how to communicate and collaborate with all team members, including students with disabilities and their families/caregivers, to help students achieve desired learning outcomes.

In this section, you’ll gain insight into effective communication and collaboration strategies, with a strong focus on culturally responsive approaches. You’ll develop the ability to work positively with students, families, school staff, and community members from diverse backgrounds. Collaboration for the development and implementation of individualized plans like IEPs is essential, along with methods for working with paraeducators and related services personnel. You’ll also understand the roles of professional groups and referral agencies in supporting students with disabilities.

SUBAREA II—UNDERSTANDING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES This section centers on your understanding of typical and atypical human growth and development, as well as the characteristics and needs of students with disabilities. You’ll demonstrate your knowledge of various domains of human development, recognize cultural and linguistic differences, and identify different disability categories and their characteristics. Recognizing the psychological and social-emotional needs of students with disabilities is crucial.

SUBAREA III—ASSESSMENT AND PROGRAM PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION You’ll need to understand the types and characteristics of assessments used with students with disabilities in this section. In this section, you’ll show your understanding for how to select, design, and administer assessments, interpret assessment results, and communicate them effectively to stakeholders. The section also covers strategies for developing, implementing, and monitoring individualized learning and behavior plans for students with disabilities. Furthermore, make sure you can select specially designed instruction (SDI), program modifications, and accommodations. You’ll also be tested on how to align IEPs with the general education curriculum and use standards as benchmarks.

If you still need more practice, head over to our SPED PreK-8 study guide page to learn more. When you’re ready, check your readiness for test day with this Module 1 mini test below. If you’d like access to our full-length practice test to prep for test day, enroll into our SPED PreK-8 Test Prep.