Special Education

This course focuses on the legal foundations of special education. Students examine federal and state law governing the education of students with disabilities, including IDEA, civil rights protections, due process procedures, and inclusive practices. The legal roles and responsibilities of educators are addressed in context as each topic is explored.

This course focuses on instructional systems and behavioral interventions in special education. Students examine evidence-based behavior management frameworks at the systems, classroom, and individual levels, including proactive supports, individualized interventions, and data-informed decision making. The design and implementation of effective instructional and behavioral practices for students with disabilities are addressed in context as each topic is explored.

This course examines transition planning for students with disabilities, emphasizing career readiness, postsecondary goals, and family collaboration. Candidates explore legal requirements, assessment, instructional strategies, interagency coordination, and student-centered practices that support successful transitions from secondary education to employment, further education, and independent living.

This course prepares teacher candidates to understand and apply the special education evaluation process and assistive technology decision-making. Emphasis is placed on ethical and legal responsibilities, assessment planning and interpretation, eligibility determination, and linking evaluation results to instruction and assistive technology supports for diverse learners.