Best Practices for Remote Teaching by Special Education Teachers

Remote teaching brings both challenges and opportunities for special education teachers. Supporting students with disabilities in a virtual environment requires creativity, flexibility, and deep knowledge of individualized instruction. Whether you’re teaching in a hybrid model or fully online, success in special education depends on maintaining accessibility, personal connection, and consistent routines. With the right strategies and digital tools, special education teachers can deliver impactful instruction and foster progress—even at a distance.

1. Start with Structure and Predictability

Students with disabilities thrive on routine. In a virtual setting, maintaining structure is essential to help students feel secure and ready to learn.

• Create a daily visual schedule that students and families can follow easily.
• Use consistent start times, transitions, and classroom expectations.
• Open each session with predictable routines like greetings, check-ins, or calendar time.

2. Prioritize Individualized Instruction

Remote learning must reflect the goals and accommodations in each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

• Break instruction into small, manageable steps.
• Provide one-on-one or small-group instruction via breakout rooms or separate sessions.
• Use data to monitor IEP goal progress and adjust instruction accordingly.

3. Leverage Accessible and Assistive Technology

Technology can bridge gaps in access and communication. Teachers must be familiar with tools that align with their students’ needs.

• Use text-to-speech and speech-to-text apps like Read&Write or Voice Typing in Google Docs.
• Provide materials in multiple formats—visual, auditory, and interactive.
• Introduce AAC apps or visual communication boards for nonverbal students.

4. Keep Lessons Engaging and Multisensory

Engagement is crucial for learning. Incorporate interactive and sensory-friendly elements to maintain attention and participation.

• Use props, puppets, or songs during live instruction.
• Incorporate movement breaks, scavenger hunts, or sensory activities.
• Balance screen time with hands-on learning tasks students can do at home.

5. Collaborate with Families as Partners

Family support is key in remote learning. Teachers should build strong, proactive partnerships with parents and caregivers.

• Schedule regular check-ins via phone, text, or video calls.
• Provide step-by-step guidance and tips for helping students at home.
• Celebrate student success and offer encouragement to family members.

6. Support Social-Emotional Needs

Remote learning can be isolating for students with disabilities. Teachers should prioritize connection and emotional well-being.

• Begin each session with emotional check-ins using visuals or mood meters.
• Use virtual social stories to teach coping strategies and social skills.
• Create opportunities for peer interaction through virtual games or group activities.

7. Provide Flexible Options and Respect Individual Pace

Flexibility is essential in remote special education. Teachers should allow for varied pacing and alternative ways to demonstrate understanding.

• Record lessons so students can replay them as needed.
• Offer multiple assignment formats—drawings, videos, oral responses, etc.
• Allow flexible due dates when appropriate.

8. Document Progress and Maintain Compliance

Even online, teachers must track student progress and ensure IEP compliance. Clear documentation supports accountability and goal tracking.

• Keep digital logs of attendance, participation, and student responses.
• Use simple data collection tools like Google Forms or Excel trackers.
• Submit progress reports and IEP updates on schedule.

Conclusion

Remote teaching in special education is complex, but it can also be highly effective when grounded in best practices. By prioritizing structure, accessibility, and relationship-building, special education teachers can create meaningful learning experiences for every student—regardless of the setting. Through empathy, innovation, and collaboration, educators help students with disabilities continue to grow and succeed in an increasingly digital world.