Introduction to Children with Special Needs

Course Syllabus:  CDEV205 Syllabus

Meet Your Instructor: 

Professor Angela E. Holmes, M.A.Ed.

Course Description: 

Introduces the variations in the development of children and adolescence with special needs, and the resulting impact on families.  Includes an overview of historical and social influences, laws relating to individuals with special needs, identification and referral.   

Textbook Information: 

Special Education in Contemporary Education 5e: An Introduction to Exceptionality, Gargiulo, Richard M., University of Alabama at Birmingham, Sage Publications, 2015  (NO SUBSTITUTIONS)  Course and textbook readability: Level 3

Supplemental material will be provided in class or via e-mail. 

Student Learning Objectives: 

1. Learn special education terminology and all Federal Special Education categories, including GATE, criteria and procedures for placement, data analysis, assistive technology, instructional modification and accommodations in a public school setting.
2. Understand the impact of cultural and linguistic diversity on student achievement for students with special needs in a special or typical classroom.
3. Understand how current events and social attitudes, in the Unites States, impact policy and practices for students with special needs in all settings, understand the significance of parent-professional partnerships in the educational process, as well as the challenges for family members and caretakers.
4. Actively participate in self-analysis activities to evaluate personal attitudes towards students and community members with special needs and it’s impact on instructional planning, instructional delivery, advocacy in a school setting, the impact on families and society at large.