ESE 354 - Understanding Students with Disabilities

3 Contact Hours, 3 Credits
3 lecture periods 0 lab periods


Foundational framework for understanding and working with learners with mild-moderate disabilities. Includes characteristics, development and critical needs of students with mild-moderate disabilities, special education law, and legal aspects of exceptional education, including individualized education programs and transition planning.  Also includes effective collaboration and communication practices, language development and disorders, and educational techniques to support the needs of learners with exceptionalities such as assistive/educational technology and modifications and accommodations.

Information: Education department approval is required before enrolling in this course.
  

1. Analyze relevant legal aspects of exceptional education.
2. Utilize appropriate support strategies and resources to address the educational needs of students with exceptionalities.
3. Demonstrate effective collaboration and consultation techniques
4. Identify critical needs of students with exceptional needs.
5. Apply effective educational techniques to address diverse characteristics of learners with exceptionalities.
6. Create legal programs and plans for individuals with exceptional needs.

1. Characteristics of students with mild-moderate disabilities
2. Developmental, cognitive, social, and emotional considerations
3. Equity, inclusion, and access 
4. Addressing bias
5. Culturally responsive teaching

II. Legal Aspects of Special Education

1. Key legislation (IDEA, Section 504, ADA)
2. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) 
3. Transition planning
4. Ethical considerations in special education

III. Language Development and Disorders

1. Typical vs. atypical language development
2. Common language disorders 
3. Impact on learning and communication
4. Support strategies 

IV. Collaboration and Consultation in Special Education

1. Effective communication with parents and families
2. Collaboration with educational stakeholders

V. Support Strategies

1. Modifications and accommodations
2. Assistive technology 

VII. Legal Plans and Individualized Programs

1. Writing IEPs
2. Creating transition plans