This course will examine various disabilities of both high and low incidence. Investigation and research will be used to analyze areas of exceptionality starting with etiology, moving through to instructional strategies, generalization and inclusion. Psychological and social roles as well as family involvement will also be explored.

Addresses characteristics of student exceptionalities, principles and practices for effective planning, instruction, and assessment of all students, as well as legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities of the classroom teacher. Investigation and research will be used to analyze areas of exceptionality starting with etiology, moving through to instructional strategies, generalization and inclusion. Typically offered: Autumn.

Classroom presentation centers on the interaction of children with disabilities and the school. Topics include federal and state regulations for the education of the disabled; procedures for referral, diagnosis and placement; formation of individual education programs, service models, task analysis and sequencing of skills; formation and evaluation of behavioral objectives; selection of instructional materials and methodology; and classroom organization. Emphasis on the importance of the role of the family in the individual education program planning process is a critical point to the course.

This course will examine the characteristics of individuals identified with severe disabilities to include: definition and classification systems, etiology, theoretical approaches, educational diagnosis, instructional strategies, application, related supports and family and community issues.

Provides special educators with background and knowledge related to characteristics of children and youth at-risk diagnosed with emotional and behavior disorders. This course will examine preventative strategies for children at-risk and study behavioral approaches for preventing and managing behavior. Etiology, medical and educational diagnosis, methodologies, application, family and community issues will be investigated.

Teaches diagnostic and evaluative procedures commonly used with children experiencing special needs. Includes construction of curriculum based assessment and criterion referenced tests; use and interpretation of formal and informal tests, and ethical protocol and related issues will be closely examined and practiced. Family dynamics and participation is also a vital aspect of this course.

Studies the characteristics and unique talants and needs associated with learning disabilities and attention disorders. This will include definitions, etiologies, characteristics, theoretical approaches, educational management, instructional strategies, application, and inclusion of children with learning disabilities and attention disorders. Family and community involvement will be investigated.

Focuses on diagnosis of reading strengths and weaknesses; correlates of reading problems; and analysis and selection of methods and materials for reading instruction of children with special needs. These strategies will also examine children who speak English as their second language.

Focuses on an in-depth explanation of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and classroom management strategies. The strengths and application of using ABA will be investigated. Specifics of how behaviors are identified, analyzed and used to provide positive behavior intervention plans are explored and implemented. Family involvement will be a key focus to the success of the child.

This capstone course will explore major trends and issues affecting special education, including the rights of the disabled, emerging trends in educational services and major issues surrounding the quality of life of self-determination and independence of individuals with disabilities.

Independent Study.

Observation and daily teaching in special education in the elementary schools under the direction of a cooperating teacher.

Second quarter of a special education internship. Observation and daily teaching in special education in the elementary schools under the direction of a cooperating teacher.

Provides opportunity for observation and daily teaching in special education sections in the public schools under the direction of a master teacher.

See Integrated and Internship quarters program prerequisites. Provides opportunity for observation and daily teaching in special education under the direction of a master teacher.

Explores selected topics in special education.

Offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in a supervised P-12 special education classroom environment, allowing teacher candidates to apply the competencies and expertise of a professional educator, encompassing activities such as observing, planning, teaching, assessing, and reflecting.