Journal of Education & Social Policy

Collaboration Opportunities within University Teacher Education Programs
Janet L. Bavonese, Cynthia Connor, Valerie Wheat, Larry Beard, Lynetta A. Owens

Abstract
Collaboration is the key to successful teaching. In today’s school environment, interdisciplinary teams of professionals serve student needs. In order to make positive strides in social, behavioral, and academic learning, education professionals must work together in a collaborative model for service delivery. In particular, collaboration is indicated as a powerful tool for helping special education teachers who serve students with special needs. However, this collaborative skillset cannot be isolated alone to special educators. Indeed, the word collaborative itself indicates that some sort of relationship must exist to create the pathways of communication necessary for success. Hence, the repertoire of knowledge and skills for successful collaboration should be developed for both general and special educators. Here at Jacksonville State University, all teacher candidates are provided opportunities to develop knowledge and skills by collaborating with peers in activities and projects designed to benefit P-12 students.

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