EDU 202 - Introduction to the Exceptional Learner

1. Summarize key laws, events and legal cases in special education.
2. Describe philosophical and ethical principles underlying special education.
3. Explain the impact of exceptionalities on student learning and development.
4. Identify strategies to create inclusive learning environments.
5. Investigate current special education models and theories.

1. Foundations
   1. Definition and scope 
   2. Historical milestones 
   3. Key legal cases
2. Philosophical and Ethical Principles
   1. Philosophical perspectives
   2. Ethical considerations
   3. Advocacy and equity
3. Characteristics
   1. Categories of exceptionalities 
   2. Student learning and development
   3. Strength-based approaches
4. Legal Frameworks
   1. Major laws
   2. Rights and protections
5. Models and Theories
   1. Service delivery models
   2. Theories of learning and development
   3. Inclusive education practices
   4. Differentiated instruction and Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
   5. Accommodations and modifications
   6. Evidence-based teaching methods
6. Learning Environments
   1. Accessible and supportive learning spaces
   2. Preventive and responsive practices
   3. Social-emotional development and peer interactions