Foundations of Special Education

ECPSE 550 prepares non-special education teacher education candidates with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to provide instruction that will promote the participation and progress of students with disabilities in the general education curriculum and prepares candidates with competencies to work collaboratively with colleagues. Teacher education candidates across certification areas and age-ranges are exposed to research-validated professional practice that result in the creation of effective instructional environments for all students, with specific focus on those students who are classified for special education services and supports with mild, moderate, and severe disabilities. The historical and sociological treatment of people with disabilities, special education law, adapting curriculum and instruction, understanding Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), participating in IEP meetings, and advocacy and collaboration are also addressed. Candidates are provided with multiple opportunities to engage in reflective practice regarding the implications of course content to their specific educational disciplines in terms of personalizing instruction and building classroom communities that support the full diversity of learners. Fifteen hours of fieldwork focusing on meeting the needs of students with disabilities within candidates' certification area or age-range are required.

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