6 Free Professional Development for Special Education Teachers

Why Choose Podcasts or YouTube Channels?

Teachers should consider listening to podcasts or YouTube videos as a valuable source of free professional development. Podcasts and YouTube videos feature real professionals who understand the challenges educators face in the classroom.

They provide practical and insightful tips and advice that can be applied directly to teaching practice. Additionally, podcasts and videos offer the flexibility to listen at your own convenience, making them accessible for busy educators.

free professional development

Even if some hosts are no longer in the classroom themselves, they draw from their wealth of experience to share valuable insights and lessons learned. By tuning in to podcasts or videos, educators can gain valuable knowledge and skills to enhance their teaching effectiveness. This is a great way to get free professional development.

Read my previous recommendations!

Free Professional Development Online

The Cult of Pedagogy

Teaching strategies, classroom management, education reform, educational technology — if it has something to do with teaching, we’re talking about it. On the podcast, Jennifer interviews educators, students, administrators and parents about the psychological and social dynamics of school, trade secrets, and other juicy things you’ll never learn in a textbook. Other episodes feature her on her own, offering advice on ways to make your teaching more effective and more fun. This is a great opportunity for free professional development.

The Sue Larkey Podcast

Sue Larkey is a highly qualified educator who has taught students with autism spectrum disorder in the mainstream and special schools. She combines practical experience with extensive research having completed a Masters in Special Education and the research sections of a Doctorate in Education.

Sue has over 1.3 million downloads of her Podcast (Sue Larkey Podcast) of which there are over 200 episodes. Sue has authored many books on autism spectrum disorders and other Neurodiversity. She believes that armed with the tools of understanding and confidence, much can be achieved. This is a great opportunity for free professional development.

Truth for Teachers Podcast

Angela Watson is a National Board Certified Teacher with a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She has 11 years of classroom experience and over a decade of experience as an instructional coach.

Angela created this website as a young teacher in 2003 to share practical classroom ideas and help other educators build a positive mindset so they can truly enjoy their work. It was originally called “Ms. Powell’s Management Ideas for Teachers” until 2008, when it was renamed “The Cornerstone for Teachers” after her first book.

Rebranded in November 2021 to Truth for Teachers, the site now impacts over 8 million educators annually.

The Autism Classroom Resources Podcast

The podcast for special educators looking for professional and personal growth. If you are a special educator of any kind, this podcast is for you. Behavior, organization, curriculum, evidence-based practice, and educator self-care are major themes.

Christine Reeves help special ed staff like you connect with your students to build successful relationships, prevent challenging behavior and improve outcomes in the classroom by focusing on practical training, tips and printed or digital resources designed for the real-world classroom. This is a great opportunity for free professional development.

The Behavior Check In YouTube Channel

Rachel is a special education teacher and a parent to a child with ADHD. She wants to help parents, teachers and share her personal experiences of teaching and behavior management. She posts parenting, teacher lifestyle and informative videos and vlogs. Rachel is here to help and inspire you, and she is always willing to answer your questions. This is a great opportunity for free professional development.

The Science of Special Education YouTube Channel

Brett is a special education consultant with a passion for literacy and the Science of Reading for students with disabilities. She has worked in special education for over two decades in a variety of roles including as a teacher (virtual, self-contained, resource room, and co-teaching placements), special education administrator, and an educational attorney. She uses YouTube to share the things she has learned along the way and learn from you as well! This is a great opportunity for free professional development.

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