This course provides the student with background to assessment issues in special education. Students will administer and interpret tests used to classify individuals with exceptional needs. Tests of ability, achievement, adaptive behavior, and other special inventory techniques will be reviewed. This course serves as an introduction to the field of specific learning disabilities. Theoretical approaches to the field are considered.
Emphasis is on the neurological, psychodynamic, and behavioral approaches.
Tests and observational techniques to aid diagnosis are presented. Various treatment methods are compared. Students are given limited opportunity to work with children with learning problems. Students will also review and evaluate appropriate software. The student will review various curriculum guides and materials used in the instruction of individuals with exceptional needs.