EDUC& 203 - Exceptional Child

Credits: 3
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 22
Lab Hours: 22
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: Introduction to the categories of special needs and the rules and regulations concerning special education and related services. Overview of the issues and techniques, current trends, and classroom approaches for maximizing the development of children with special needs.

Prerequisite: None.
Meets FQE Requirement: No
Elective Requirements: Fulfills Gray Area Electives
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Explain the major exceptionalities in the areas of cognitive, social, physical, and emotional development.
Discuss the role of the teacher/paraprofessional in identifying, individualizing and implementing educational programs for the child with special needs.
Describe legal rights of children, families and education professionals.
Articulate a philosophy with regard to early intervention, mainstreaming, full inclusion, self-contained learning environments, and a continuum of services for children with special needs.
Explain the importance of the family, culture, community and physical environmental influences on the planning of individualized education programs for children with special needs.

Course Contents

Major areas of exceptionalities.
Educational and instructional implications.
Legal issues.
The role, rights and needs of the family of a child with special needs.
Teaching techniques and collaboration with the family and involved professionals.
Development of self-concept and diversity issues with children with special needs.
Mainstreaming, full inclusion, early intervention, self-contained programs, and continuum of services.
Assessment/evaluation.

Instructional Units: 3.5