Education Department
- (Special Education) Course Descriptions
SPE 315 Critical Issues Seminar (.5 course)The purpose of this course is to discuss critical issues in the field, create a final portfolio synthesizing your coursework and experience, and prepare for student teaching. (Prereq.: PPST and admission to department)
SPE 400 Teaching Students with Emotional/Behavioral Disabilities
This course presents an overview of learners with emotional and behavioral disabilities and learning disabilities. It addresses the historical and philosophical aspects of the EBD category, examines origins of student behavior and student learning styles, and addresses theoretical perspectives and conceptual models as they relate to this category of disability. (Prereq: PPST and admission to the department)
SPE 410 Implementing Assessment Strategies
This course examines the assessment process from the pre-referral to the recommendation stage. Students gain understanding of key assessment tools and how they influence student placement and programming. A qualitative and person-centered assessment process is emphasized. (Prereq: PPST and admission to the department)
SPE 420 Planning, Design, and Delivery
This course provides students with skills to write and implement individual program plans and to create effective learning environments for students labeled EBD. Particular attention is paid to inclusion models, diversity of student need, and forming partnerships with key school personnel. (Prereq: PPST and admission to the department)
SPE 424 Etiology and Origins of Learning Disabilities
This course will focus on the history and context of learning disabilities (LD). This includes an in-depth look at the origin of learning disabilities, as well as various theoretical models (sociological, biological, psychological, cognitive, and behavioral) applied to understanding learning disabilities. The course will also provide a critique of current philosophical positions in the field. Students will also acquire knowledge related to accessing information relevant to the field of learning disabilities. (Prereq.: PPST and admission to department)
SPE 430 Instructional and Behavioral Practices
This course examines behavioral support options used with students who are labeled EBD. It emphasizes the use of reflective, pro-active and non-aversive approaches drawn from current best practices and including positive behavioral supports, person centered planning and functional assessment. (Prereq: PPST and admission to the department)
EDC 410 Learners with Special Needs
(see EDC course descriptions)
EDU 491 Practicum and Seminar in Special Education
A supervised field placement in a facility for an exceptional population plus on-campus seminar. Students planning to take this course should consult with the special education director about a placement prior to registering for the course. (Prereq.: completion of all other courses in special education minor or consent of instructor. Open to all.)
GENERAL EDUCATION COURSES
See Education department course descriptions.
