The special education minor provides foundational preparation for working with special populations of students labeled within the categories of EBD (Emotional Behavioral Disorders) or SLD (Specific Learning Disabilities). The minor does not lead to full teacher licensure in these areas. Students completing the minor need to continue their studies on a graduate level in order to fully qualify for licensure as a special education teacher.
What will I learn?
You will learn foundational preparation for working with special populations of students labeled within the categories of EBD (Emotional Behavioral Disorders) or SLD (Specific Learning Disabilities).
SPD 3215
Children and Families with Special Needs
A foundational course for understanding collaborative strategies that teachers can use to support the educational needs of students and families involved with special education services provided under the guidelines of IDEA. Emphasis is on learning how to identify and access multiple levels of resources (family, school and community) in order to facilitate the educational process in a manner that will benefit the student labeled with special needs.
EDU 3285
Educating Diverse Learners
Topics for the course include the nature of learning, the influence of culture on learning and teaching strategies identified as “best practices.” An introduction to populations labeled at-risk, under-achiever and exceptional comprises a core segment of the course. Historical and contemporary perspectives on special populations within the PK–12 system are included, with an introduction to various types of formal and informal classroom assessments that can aid the classroom teacher in the intervention process.
EDU 5220
Foundations of Educational Research
This course is an introduction to the foundations of research. After initially discussing the nature and roles of research, the majority of the course will involve increasing student awareness of the foundations, elements, and practical application of findings from quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods, and action research.
SPD 2215
Introduction to Special Education
An overview of the history of special education in America with a focus on how special education is supported by federal, state and local governance. An in-depth look will be given to the cascade of PK– 12 educational programs designed to meet the needs of students labeled with special needs. The need for support services within the educational system will be reviewed in relationship to how such services impact the total educational programming for students, families, schools and society.
SPD 3218
Special Education: Due Process, Trends and Problems
An examination of the legal responsibilities of schools as prescribed by federal and state mandates. Specific issues related to due process for special education under IDEA are addressed. A review of current best practices and policies that impact due process through the use of case studies is presented and students work directly with the IEP process.
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