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How a special education teacher (elementary school) can use AI, task by task

O*NET 25-2056.00: Special Education Teachers, Elementary School30 tasksJob Zone 4: Considerable preparation

Teach academic, social, and life skills to elementary school students with learning, emotional, or physical disabilities. Includes teachers who specialize and work with students who are blind or have visual impairments; students who are deaf or have hearing impairments; and students with intellectual disabilities.

Type your own title and every prompt on this page updates to match. Also called: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher (DHH Teacher), Emotional Disabilities Teacher, Hearing Impaired Itinerant Teacher (HI Itinerant Teacher), Learning Support Teacher, Resource Program Teacher, Severe Emotional Disorders Elementary Teacher (SED Elementary Teacher), Special Educator, SPED Inclusion Teacher (Special Education Inclusion Teacher), SPED Resource Teacher (Special Education Resource Teacher), SPED Teacher (Special Education Teacher).

Where AI fits in this job

AI-ready 12%AI-assist 56%Stays human 32%

Share of the job's tasks, weighted by how important and how frequent each task is (O*NET ratings). 3 AI-ready, 18 AI-assist and 9 human-led tasks out of 30. This measures where AI can help, not whether the job will disappear.

Information & paperwork
Thinking & planning
People & communication
Leading & teaching
Hands-on & physical

Shape of the job: importance of each kind of work activity (O*NET, 1 to 5).

🔒 Many of these tasks involve people's information. Remove names and identifying details before using AI, or use only a tool your employer has approved.

AI can draft these 3

AI produces a usable first pass. You review it, fix it and own it.

Establish and communicate clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects to students.

Several times a day

AI drafts lesson plans, quizzes and practice scenarios.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft lesson plans, training outlines, quizzes and practice scenarios in minutes. You shape them around your learners and your standards.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to establish and communicate clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects to students.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Course or unit: [subject, level]
What learners should be able to do: [rough goals]

Write measurable learning objectives using clear verbs, and an assessment idea for each. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Write learning objectives

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you establish and communicate clear objectives. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course or unit] and your rough goals in [What learners should be able to do].
Step 3Share them with learners at the start of the unit.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop instructional objectives..

Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, district policies, or administrative regulations.

Daily

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, district policies, or administrative regulations.

Context: We use Microsoft Word.
Records: [grades, attendance, reports]
Rules: [privacy]

Draft templates or entries without names. Use plain language and headings where they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Student records

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you maintain accurate (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Records] and [Rules] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every fact, name and number against your source before it goes anywhere. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Importance 4.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Maintain student records..

Prepare objectives, outlines, or other materials for courses of study, following curriculum guidelines or school or state requirements.

Daily

AI turns complex material into plain-language handouts.

Show prompt & steps

AI is great at turning complicated material into plain-language guides, handouts, FAQs and how-tos for a specific audience. You check it's accurate.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to prepare objectives, outlines, or other materials for courses of study, following curriculum guidelines or school or state requirements.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Course: [subject, level]
Need: [syllabus, assignment, handout]

Draft the material with clear objectives and grading criteria. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Course materials

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare objectives and outlines (today).
Step 2Fill in [Course] and [Need] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer is right for your workplace before you share it.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop instructional materials.. Also involves: Develop instructional objectives..

AI can help you prep these 18

AI speeds up the prep, drafting or thinking. The core of the task is still yours.

Instruct students with disabilities in academic subjects, using a variety of techniques, such as phonetics, multisensory learning, or repetition to reinforce learning and meet students' varying needs.

Several times a day

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to instruct students with disabilities in academic subjects, using a variety of techniques, such as phonetics, multisensory learning, or repetition to reinforce learning and meet students' varying needs.

Context: We use Scientific Learning Fast ForWord and Children's educational software; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Learner needs: [general description, no names]
Goals: [skills to build]

Suggest accommodations, targeted activities and progress checks. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Support plan for a learner

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you instruct students. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Learner needs] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Align with the student's IEP or support plan.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop strategies or programs for students with special needs..

Develop or implement strategies to meet the needs of students with a variety of disabilities.

Several times a day

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to develop or implement strategies to meet the needs of students with a variety of disabilities.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Learner needs: [general description, no names]
Goals: [skills to build]

Suggest accommodations, targeted activities and progress checks. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Support plan for a learner

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you develop or implement strategies. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Learner needs] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Align with the student's IEP or support plan.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop strategies or programs for students with special needs..

Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among students.

Several times a day

AI drafts the structure and wording; the specifics and sign-off are yours.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft the structure and standard wording. The specifics, the judgment calls and the sign-off are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among students.

Context: We use Microsoft Word.
Class: [age group or lab setting]
Concerns: [safety, behaviour, routines]

Draft clear, positive rules with reasons, consequences, and a way to teach them in the first week.

10-minute exercise: Classroom rules

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you establish and enforce rules. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Class] and [Concerns] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach them and review after two weeks.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 4.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Establish rules or policies governing student behavior..

Teach socially acceptable behavior, employing techniques such as behavior modification or positive reinforcement.

Several times a day

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to teach socially acceptable behavior, employing techniques such as behavior modification or positive reinforcement.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Skill: [hygiene, healthy eating, recognition skills]
Learners: [age group]

Plan a playful lesson with routines and songs or games. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Life skills lesson

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you teach socially acceptable behavior.
Step 2Fill in [Skill] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Teach life skills..

Modify the general elementary education curriculum for students with disabilities.

Several times a day

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to modify the general elementary education curriculum for students with disabilities.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Lesson: [topic]
Learner needs: [general description, no names]

Suggest adaptations: different entry points, supports, extensions and checks for understanding. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Adapt the lesson

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you modify the general elementary education curriculum. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Lesson] and [Learner needs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Try one adaptation and note how learners respond.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Modify teaching methods or materials to accommodate student needs..

Teach students personal development skills, such as goal setting, independence, or self-advocacy.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to teach students personal development skills, such as goal setting, independence, or self-advocacy.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Skill: [hygiene, healthy eating, recognition skills]
Learners: [age group]

Plan a playful lesson with routines and songs or games. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Life skills lesson

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you teach students personal development skills (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Skill] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Teach life skills..

Plan or conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 41% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to plan or conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Learners: [age, level]
Topic and time: [subject, sessions]

Plan activities with objectives, materials, timing and differentiation. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a unit or activity

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you plan or conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Learners] and [Topic and time] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach one activity and note what worked.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan educational activities..

Prepare, administer, or grade tests or assignments to evaluate students' progress.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 55% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to prepare, administer, or grade tests or assignments to evaluate students' progress.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Course and unit: [subject, level]
Outcomes to test: [what learners should know or do]

Draft a short assessment: mixed question types, an answer key, a marking rubric, and how results map to outcomes.

10-minute exercise: Assessment design

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare, administer, or grade tests or assignments (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course and unit] and [Outcomes to test] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer in the key and cut any question you wouldn't ask.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Administer tests to assess educational needs or progress.. Also involves: Prepare tests.; Evaluate student work..

Coordinate placement of students with special needs into mainstream classes.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to coordinate placement of students with special needs into mainstream classes.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Learner needs: [general description, no names]
Goals: [skills to build]

Suggest accommodations, targeted activities and progress checks. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Support plan for a learner

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you coordinate placement of students (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Learner needs] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Align with the student's IEP or support plan.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop strategies or programs for students with special needs..

Confer with other staff members to plan or schedule lessons promoting learning, following approved curricula.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to confer with other staff members to plan or schedule lessons promoting learning, following approved curricula.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Scientific Learning Fast ForWord; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Topic: [unit, schedule]
Colleagues: [teachers, staff]

Draft a co-planning agenda and lesson outline. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Co-plan lessons

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you confer with other staff members to plan or schedule (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Colleagues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with other teaching professionals to develop educational programs..

Confer with parents, administrators, testing specialists, social workers, or other professionals to develop individual educational plans (IEPs) for students' educational, physical, or social development.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to confer with parents, administrators, testing specialists, social workers, or other professionals to develop individual educational plans (IEPs) for students' educational, physical, or social development.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Topic: [unit, schedule]
Colleagues: [teachers, staff]

Draft a co-planning agenda and lesson outline. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Co-plan lessons

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you confer with parents and administrators. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Colleagues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with other teaching professionals to develop educational programs..

Instruct students in daily living skills required for independent maintenance and self-sufficiency, such as hygiene, safety, or food preparation.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to instruct students in daily living skills required for independent maintenance and self-sufficiency, such as hygiene, safety, or food preparation.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Skill: [hygiene, healthy eating, recognition skills]
Learners: [age group]

Plan a playful lesson with routines and songs or games. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Life skills lesson

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you instruct students (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Skill] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember. Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site procedure before you rely on it.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Safety-critical: AI output is a starting point. Follow your site's procedures and the manufacturer's guidance.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Teach life skills..

Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, or teacher training workshops to maintain or improve professional competence.

Monthly

AI explains and quizzes you; confirm against official sources.

Show prompt & steps

AI can explain new developments and quiz you. Confirm what you learn against official sources.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to attend professional meetings, educational conferences, or teacher training workshops to maintain or improve professional competence.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Event: [training, conference, professional meeting]
What I want from it: [skills, contacts, answers]

Prepare a primer on the main topics, 5 questions to ask, and a one-page template for notes and actions.

10-minute exercise: Make a meeting or training count

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you attend professional meetings, educational conferences and teacher training workshops.
Step 2Fill in [Event] and [What I want from it] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Turn one action into something you do the following week.

AI's knowledge has a cutoff date. For new regulations and standards, always confirm against the official source.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Attend training sessions or professional meetings to develop or maintain professional knowledge..

Organize and supervise games or other recreational activities to promote physical, mental, or social development.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to organize and supervise games or other recreational activities to promote physical, mental, or social development.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Learners: [age, level]
Topic and time: [subject, sessions]

Plan activities with objectives, materials, timing and differentiation. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a unit or activity

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you organize and supervise games or other recreational activities (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Learners] and [Topic and time] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach one activity and note what worked.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan educational activities..

Interpret the results of standardized tests to determine students' strengths and areas of need.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 57% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to interpret the results of standardized tests to determine students' strengths and areas of need.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Learners: [class, patients, trainees]
Evidence: [paste test results, observations, notes, anonymized]

Identify learning needs by topic and learner group, suggest supports, and a plan to check progress.

10-minute exercise: Learning needs assessment

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you interpret the results of standardized tests. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Learners] and [Evidence] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Pick one need and plan a short lesson for it.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Assess educational needs of students..

Collaborate with other teachers or administrators to develop, evaluate, or revise elementary school programs.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to collaborate with other teachers or administrators to develop, evaluate, or revise elementary school programs.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Topic: [unit, schedule]
Colleagues: [teachers, staff]

Draft a co-planning agenda and lesson outline. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Co-plan lessons

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you collaborate with other teachers or administrators to develop, evaluate.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Colleagues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with other teaching professionals to develop educational programs..

Administer standardized ability and achievement tests to elementary students with special needs.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to administer standardized ability and achievement tests to elementary students with special needs.

Context: We use Children's educational software and EasyCBM; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Course and unit: [subject, level]
Outcomes to test: [what learners should know or do]

Draft a short assessment: mixed question types, an answer key, a marking rubric, and how results map to outcomes.

10-minute exercise: Assessment design

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you administer standardized ability and achievement tests. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course and unit] and [Outcomes to test] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer in the key and cut any question you wouldn't ask.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Administer tests to assess educational needs or progress..

Plan or supervise experiential learning activities, such as class projects, field trips, demonstrations, or visits by guest speakers.

A few times a year

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to plan or supervise experiential learning activities, such as class projects, field trips, demonstrations, or visits by guest speakers.

Context: We use Scientific Learning Fast ForWord and Children's educational software; the work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Course: [subject]
Options: [sites, labs, community partners]

Plan the experience: learning goals, logistics, safety, pre-work and a reflection task. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a field trip or hands-on experience

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you plan or supervise experiential learning activities. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course] and [Options] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan experiential learning activities..

These stay human 9

They need your hands, your presence or your accountable judgment. Lean into them: they get more valuable as routine work is automated.

📏 Measured in this job (O*NET work context): Contact with others: constant contact with others · Physical closeness to others: very close (near touching) · Face-to-face discussions: every day · Standing: more than half the time

Encourage students to explore learning opportunities or persevere with challenging tasks to prepare them for later grades.

Daily

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to encourage students to explore learning opportunities or persevere with challenging tasks to prepare them for later grades.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Students: [age, situation]
Challenge: [motivation, confidence]

Prepare encouraging feedback phrases and growth-mindset prompts. Then play a discouraged student. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Encouraging students

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you encourage students (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Students] and [Challenge] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3After the real conversation, write down what worked so you can reuse it.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Encourage students..

Prepare classrooms with a variety of materials or resources for children to explore, manipulate, or use in learning activities or imaginative play.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to prepare classrooms with a variety of materials or resources for children to explore, manipulate, or use in learning activities or imaginative play.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Activity: [lesson, centres]
Learners: [age, number]

List materials, room layout and set-up order. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Classroom set-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare classrooms (today).
Step 2Fill in [Activity] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the room is safe and accessible before learners arrive.

Importance 4.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Set up classroom materials or equipment..

Observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.

Daily

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Age group: [describe]
Areas: [social, physical, behaviour, health]

Make an observation checklist with age-appropriate milestones and notes for parent conversations. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Child development observation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior and social development (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Age group] and [Areas] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use it for one week of observations.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Monitor student behavior, social development, or health.. Also involves: Monitor student performance.; Evaluate student work..

Guide or counsel students with adjustment problems, academic problems, or special academic interests.

Daily

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to guide or counsel students with adjustment problems, academic problems, or special academic interests.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Who: [student, mentee; no names]
Topic: [courses, career, research]

Prepare questions to understand their goals, options to discuss, and next steps. Then play the student.

10-minute exercise: Advising session

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you guide or counsel students (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Who] and [Topic] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3End with one concrete next step they own.

📊 People already use AI around this task (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026). The task itself stays human-led.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Advise students on academic or career matters..

Monitor teachers or teacher assistants to ensure adherence to special education program requirements.

Daily

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to monitor teachers or teacher assistants to ensure adherence to special education program requirements.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Team: [seasonal staff, students]
Plan: [activities, research]

Help me prepare: the key message in 2 sentences, what good looks like, how people might react and how I'll respond, and one thing I'll check next week.

10-minute exercise: Directing a team

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you monitor teachers or teacher assistants (today).
Step 2Fill in [Team] and [Plan] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Direct activities of subordinates..

Provide assistive devices, supportive technology, or assistance accessing facilities, such as restrooms.

Daily

Hands-on care. AI only helps with prep, explanations and paperwork.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can help around the care: plain-language explanations for patients, study and revision, checklists and paperwork drafts. Use only tools your employer has approved for health information.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to provide assistive devices, supportive technology, or assistance accessing facilities, such as restrooms.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Needs: [general description]
Supports: [devices, accommodations]

List supports and how to use them in class. Keep it free of any patient details, add plain-language wording I can use with people, and list the warning signs that mean I should escalate.

10-minute exercise: Supporting students with special needs

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you provide assistive devices, supportive technology and assistance accessing facilities (today).
Step 2Fill in [Needs] and [Supports] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Compare it line by line with your protocol. Your protocol always wins.

Importance 4.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Assist students with special educational needs..

Organize and display students' work in a manner appropriate for their perceptual skills.

Weekly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to organize and display students' work in a manner appropriate for their perceptual skills.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Work: [art, projects]
Space: [walls, gallery]

Plan layout and labels. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Student work display

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you organize and display students' work in a manner appropriate for their (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Work] and [Space] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check consent for displaying names or images.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Display student work..

Instruct and monitor students in the use and care of equipment or materials to prevent injuries and damage.

Weekly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to instruct and monitor students in the use and care of equipment or materials to prevent injuries and damage.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Situation: [grades, misconduct, attendance, no names]
Goal: [support or discipline outcome]

Help me plan the conversation, the support options, and how to document it. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Student performance follow-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you instruct and monitor students (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Situation] and [Goal] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use the plan and record the outcome. Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site procedure before you rely on it.

Safety-critical: AI output is a starting point. Follow your site's procedures and the manufacturer's guidance.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Monitor student performance.. Also involves: Teach others to use technology or equipment..

Meet with parents or guardians to discuss their children's progress, advise them on using community resources, or teach skills for dealing with students' impairments.

Monthly

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a special education teacher (elementary school). Part of my job is to meet with parents or guardians to discuss their children's progress, advise them on using community resources, or teach skills for dealing with students' impairments.

Context: The work draws on education and training, therapy and counseling and psychology.
Student progress: [strengths, concerns; no names]
Goals: [what you want to agree]

Prepare an agenda, examples, questions and a shared plan. Then play the parent. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Parent-teacher conference

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you meet with parents or guardians. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Student progress] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Send a short summary of agreed actions afterward.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Discuss student progress with parents or guardians..

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Your next moves

Skills to build

From O*NET's ratings of how important each skill is in this job, matched to which part of the work it supports.

Stays human Deepen these

They power the human-led work, which is the part of the job AI can't take over.

  • Active Listeningimportance 4.2/5
    Used in: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  • Monitoringimportance 3.6/5
    Used in: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  • Speakingimportance 4.2/5
    Used in: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others
  • Social Perceptivenessimportance 4.1/5
    Used in: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others

With AI Use these to work with AI

When AI does the first draft, these are the skills you use to brief it and check what comes back.

  • Critical Thinkingimportance 4.0/5
    Used in: Thinking Creatively
  • Writingimportance 3.8/5
    Used in: Documenting/Recording Information
  • Reading Comprehensionimportance 4.1/5
    Used in: Training and Teaching Others
  • Learning Strategiesimportance 4.1/5
    Used in: Training and Teaching Others

Where you could move

Related jobs from O*NET with the closest skill profile, favouring ones where more of the work stays human. No step down in preparation.

  • Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education40% human-led · Same preparation · $63,970/yr · usually bachelor's degreeSkills to build: Systems Analysis, Negotiation, Coordination
  • Instructional Coordinators21% human-led · Needs more preparation · $77,440/yr · usually master's degreeSkills to build: Systems Analysis, Systems Evaluation, Time Management
  • School Psychologists27% human-led · Needs more preparation · $95,990/yr · usually post-master's certificateSkills to build: Systems Evaluation, Negotiation, Active Listening

Getting into this job

Bachelor's degree is most common (51% of workers)

  • High school or less 10%
  • Bachelor's 52%
  • Graduate degree 38%
  • On-the-job training: 1–3 months
  • Related experience: 1–2 years
  • Professional certification: important (4.3/5)

What workers in this job report, from O*NET surveys (typical values).

Software in this job

In-demand tools from O*NET. Many now have AI built in, so check what yours can do before adding a new tool.

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