TELC 5004 - Survey of Exceptional Children (3)

This course provides a critical study of the history, issues, trends, and supporting research in special education. This course will enable the student to identify psychological, physical, educational, medical, behavioral and learning characteristics and needs of individuals with various disabilities, as well as students from diverse cultural, social, ethnic and racial backgrounds. Inclusion of students with disabilities, and techniques to adapt instruction to fit individual needs will be emphasized. An understanding of legislation, regulations, and litigation related to serving individuals with disabilities will enable the student to correlate individualized educational programs with the principles of normalization and least restrictive environments. Further, this course assists students in acquiring the knowledge and skills needed to function well as an educator in a changing and diverse society; an understanding of learners and learning processes; a knowledge of professional, ethical, and legal issues affecting educators; and the human relations skills needed to work effectively with individuals with disabilities and their families in both professional and community roles.