SPE 339/339F Educating Students with Low Incidence Disabilities (f. SPE 2141) (3 credits)

This course addresses the definitions, characteristics, assessment and specific techniques for students needing adaptive and functional curricula. Characteristics are addressed in relation to why and how specialized instruction can meet the learning and developmental needs of these individuals, specifically in the areas of instruction, assistive learning, and language-communication. This includes research validated instructional strategies, adaptive and assistive technologies including augmentative communication systems, and communication and social interaction alternatives for non-speaking individuals. In addition, the course reviews behaviorally-based educational models for students with autism and other moderate and severe disabilities, and presents methods aimed at enhancing functional skill development in major life domains, with emphasis on community-based training and self-determination.

Candidates will develop effective, evidence-based instructional strategies for all levels of support (PreK-8). These will include: lesson plans, unit plans, IEPs, IFSPs, 504 plans, and intervention strategies that employ Pennsylvania’s Standards Aligned Systems (http://www.pdesas.org). Candidates will be able to modify and implement curriculum including appropriate adaptations and technology, using the appropriate Academic Standards, Alternate Academic Standards where necessary, Assessment Anchors, and eligible content.

In addition, candidates will demonstrate the ability to collaborate and plan for student outcomes and transition at designated times throughout the student's education, including Age 3 transition for Pre K-8, secondary transition procedures (7-12), and transition to post school success. This course of study will include: applying the knowledge of transition-related legislation in fields of special and vocational education, rehabilitation, labor and civil rights; developing and implementing a transition plan that integrates functional, academic, and vocational data aligned to identified post school outcomes; and administering and interpreting formal and informal career and vocational assessment approaches.