SPC 2550 Foundations of Education in A Diverse Society

This introductory course for teacher candidates seeking dual licensure in regular and special education provides an educational knowledge base consisting of the philosophy, principles, theories, legislation, court decisions, and historical foundations for educating citizens, including those with disabilities, in a democratic society. State and CEC standards are used to define current practice and the expectations held for teacher candidates who in turn begin to construct their personal philosophies of education. Characteristics of learning and intellectual disabilities, emotional/behavioral disorders, and autism are presented. Particular attention is given to ways in which these characteristics impede the progress in the general education curriculum and the methods and strategies employed by teachers to maximize student success in inclusive settings. Candidates understand how primary language, culture and familial backgrounds interact with the k-12 student’s disability to impact his/her academic skills, social abilities, attitudes, values, interests and career options. Elements of instructional planning are introduced. A 20-hour unsupervised field observation engaging k-12 students in an urban classroom setting is required as part of this course. In this writing intensive course, candidates receive instruction and practice in learning to write for multiple audiences in the field of education. Candidates apply their writing skills to express their ideas on education, to organize and summarize information on disabilites, to plan lessons, and to analyze factors that inform insturction. Multiple drafts with feedback are critical components of the writing process.
Credits: 3.0