A focus on child and adolescent growth and how it relates to learning. Also examines historical and current learning theory. Topics include the significance of early experience, cognitive and personal growth, character development, information processing and issues related to mainstreaming of special needs students. Examines a rich variety of approaches to instruction, along with supporting research, and provides students with tools to analyze and incorporate the best of the newly emerging teaching methodologies. Particular attention is paid to the characteristics of an effective learning environment, as well as the understanding that how teaching is conducted has an enormous impact on students' ability to educate themselves.
Models of teaching are really models of learning.
The intent is to impart a renewed sense of the intellectual zest inherent in the craft of teaching and to make each model a potential part of a teacher's repertoire. Both individual and group communication skills will be addressed, in addition to the discussions on the responsibilities of a team member during the consultation process. The theoretical foundation of this course is systems theory, with special emphasis on family systems, their effects on members, and the interaction and the resulting impact with other systems in the community. Causes and characteristics of exceptionalities are examined, including cognitive, physical, emotional, and socio-cultural aspects. Visitation to community programs may be required.