Trust the experts: Advancing student voice in special education teacher preparation

Abstract

Student voice work centers the unique ideas, perspectives, and expression of students while reflecting students’ diverse histories and cultures. Unfortunately, educators rarely employ student voice practices in school. In this article, we propose changes in special education teacher preparation as a lever for fostering student voice in school. We define student voice. We then describe four barriers to student voice: (a) knowledge traditions, (b) technocratic professionalism and school organization, (c) low social status and accountability, and (d) school culture and local policy context. We conclude by reimagining special education teacher preparation through student voice and offer research and policy recommendations.