COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is designed to introduce the student to many types of exceptionalities which may be encountered in the classroom and within society. It will address an overview of children/adults with exceptional cognitive, physical, social and emotional characteristics; analysis of developmental and educational needs imposed by exceptionality; identification, intervention strategies, methods and programs designed to meet their needs, including, but not limited to, children identified as learning disabled. It will present the historical, philosophical and legal foundations of special education including the study of applicable state and federal laws and requirements:  Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), Individual Education Plan (IEP), Response to Intervention (RTI), etc.  It will provide current data on causes, characteristics, assessment, intervention, mainstreaming, inclusive programs and innovation.  This course is inclusive of 15 hours of observation/field experience.

A minimum grade of ‘C’ is required for transferability of all teacher education majors.

TEXT:  Exceptional Learners – Introduction to Special Education.  14^th Ed.  Daniel Hallahan, James Kauffman & Paige Pullen.  2019   (Must be inclusive of the ‘Cases for Reflection and Analysis’ booklet)

Three credit hour course.

FORMAT:  Offered once a week for three hours in the afternoon, fall semester.  Offered online, spring semester.