Also, emphasis is placed on teaching methods in remediation of academic subjects for those who are mentally retarded. This course provides an introduction to special education and a survey of exceptionalities. Emphasis is placed on human variability and its implications for special education and special educators. An analysis and overview of all the areas of exceptionalities and their interrelationships are offered. An overview of assessment procedures, curriculum planning, and instructional strategies is provided.
Considerable attention is paid to current and legislative issues and their impact.
This course introduces the student to information and procedures required to assess and develop the language and language arts skills of exceptional learners. The language characteristics and needs of those individuals considered mildly, moderately, or severely impaired within the preschool through adolescent range are studied. This course provides an in-depth study of the field of mental retardation and the mildly, moderately, and severely and profoundly mentally retarded citizens in our society. During the course, the history of the field and other topics are discussed, e.g., characteristics, etiology, current research, trends, legal issues, litigation, programs, resources and services, communication with parents, and referring and referral agencies. This course provides the student with the opportunity to acquire knowledge of the theories, definitions, characteristics, prevalence, diagnosis, and approaches to instruction relative to individuals with learning disabilities.