EEC 273 - Introduction to Exceptionalities: Understanding Diverse Learners Credits: 3

Provides a background in the field of special education and the nature of exceptionality in children and youth. Designed to address the definitions, characteristics, and educational, social, and emotional needs of diverse learners. Emphasis on legal rights and responsibilities inherent in the field of special education. In addition, societal attitudes and practices in relation to individuals with exceptionalities, current practices in identifying and classifying children and youth with exceptionalities, characteristics of all exceptional population groups, programmatic needs of individuals with exceptionalities, and issues and trends in the various fields that impact on diagnosis, classification, and programming. Covers the role of the general education teacher and other ancillary service providers in the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process. The knowledge base for this course content comes out of social, cognitive, and developmental psychology, medical aspects, educational law and policy, and special education. An important foundation for being an effective and efficient general educator. This course requires 9 contact hours in an educational setting for individuals with exceptionalities. Students must have completed all clearances, as specified by the Office of Field Placement Services.