Online Class: Introduction to Special Education

Name: Introduction to Special Education
Price: 95.00 USD

Embark on a comprehensive exploration of special education, celebrating its distinctiveness and dynamic growth while advocating for equitable opportunities through person-first language and individual empowerment. Experience the course's unique format, designed for flexibility and enriched with strategy-focused teaching techniques and a deep dive into disability history and legal mandates.

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20

Lessons
22

Exams &
Assignments
966

Students
have taken this course
11

Hours
average time
1.1

CEUs

Course Description

Dive into the world of Special Education with a course that champions not just the teaching methodologies but also the ethos of respect and empowerment that this field signifies. Special Education 101 seeks to dispel the myths surrounding disabilities, emphasizing the capabilities and potential inherent in every individual, rather than focusing on limitations.

Why is special education pivotal? Why, in a nation pledged to equal opportunities for all, is there a pressing need to ensure these rights for students with disabilities? Discover the transformative and revolutionary ideals underpinning special education. While the ideals are robust, the execution often lacks; this course delves deep into bridging that chasm.

The realm of special education in the U.S., despite its recent origin, has undergone momentous evolution. Celebrate its unique dynamism: where no two days are alike, and each student's journey is unparalleled. As highlighted by eminent scholars Douglas and Lynn Fuchs, special education stands distinct, enriched by its specialized resources, research-backed methodologies, and the accent on tailored instruction.

The course unfolds in three enlightening sections:

Delving into Disability: Traversing through history, from ancient civilizations to the contemporary era, understand the 13 categories of disability and acquaint yourself with the spectrum of gifted and talented students.
Foundations of Special Education Services: Decipher the legal framework underpinning special education, unraveling the services mandated by law. Adopt a holistic view, starting with interventions for infants to the crucial transition from high school to adult life.
Mastering Teaching Techniques: Immerse yourself in the nuances of teaching core subjects, addressing challenging behaviors, harnessing assistive technology, and exploring the realm of accommodations and modifications.

Perfect for educators looking to refresh their pedagogical toolkit, support staff wishing to delve deeper, and parents eager to advocate ardently for their child's rights. This course eliminates the constraints of geography and rigid timelines. Engage, learn, and evolve at your own pace. Propel forward in your quest for inclusive, compassionate, and effective education. Join us and be part of the movement advocating for true educational equity!

Notes:

1. In the lessons in this course, you will see the term "the student" referred to frequently. Rather than saying "he or she" each time, some lessons will say "he" and some will say "she."

2. You will also see the term "students with disabilities" used, although many educators in school settings use the term "special education students". Language is important and it is more respectful to recognize a person before the disability – talking about what a person HAS (a disability) rather than what a person IS (special education student). When you use the phrase "student with…" (autism, cognitive impairment, learning disability, etc.), you are using person-first language, which is considered a best practice in the field of disability.

Courses Frequently Bought Together:

Behavior Management 101

Learning Disabilities

Autism 101

Completely Online
Self-Paced
Printable Lessons
Full HD Video
6 Months to Complete
24/7 Availability
Start Anytime
PC & Mac Compatible
Android & iOS Friendly
Accredited CEUs

Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:

"Extraordinarily Helpful"

(2,450 votes)

Lesson 1. Ancient Views on Disability: Reverence, Rejection, and Resilience

During the Renaissance, scientific inquiry began challenging religious narratives around disabilities, leading to advancements in education and understanding. By the Industrial Revolution, institutional care emerged, contrasting with later 20th-century advocacy that pushed for legal protections and rights. 12 Total Points

Lesson 1 Video
Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
Complete Assignment: An Introduction
Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam

Lesson 2. Special Education: From Courtrooms to Classrooms

Tracing its legacy from litigation to empowerment, special education in the U.S. has been shaped decisively by landmark legal victories and policy developments advocating inclusive learning. Modern advancements in assistive technologies further drive the movement, enabling students with disabilities to overcome barriers and fully participate alongside peers in educational settings. 10 Total Points

Lesson 2 Video
Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam

Lesson 3. The Hidden Challenges of High-Incidence Disabilities

Other health impairments such as ADHD and diabetes impact educational engagement through issues like attentiveness and the need for health regimens, thus requiring collaborative assessments among educators and medical professionals. Understanding the educational implications of these health conditions allows for a holistic approach in supporting affected students. 10 Total Points

Lesson 3 Video
Assessment: Lesson 3 Exam

Lesson 4. Navigating Unique Learning Needs

Low-incidence disabilities impact a small student population but crucially influence affected families, challenging educators to create inclusive learning. Understanding their rarity and complexity, this lesson emphasizes empathy, tailored strategies, and interdisciplinary approaches to unleash student potential. 10 Total Points

Lesson 4 Video
Assessment: Lesson 4 Exam

Lesson 5. The Spectrum of Exceptionality: Gifted and Talented Explained

Giftedness can appear as a wide array of abilities from creative thinking to leadership, with the Theory of Multiple Intelligences by Howard Gardner broadening the understanding of intelligence. States require specialized instruction for gifted students, recognizing their distinct educational needs. 10 Total Points

Lesson 5 Video
Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam

Lesson 6. Navigating the IEP Process: From RTI to Student Success

The IEP framework encompasses evaluations, goal setting, and specialized service planning, involving educators, support staff, and parents at every stage. With progress monitoring and annual updates, IEPs provide adaptable strategies to meet students' evolving educational needs effectively. 10 Total Points

Lesson 6 Video
Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam

Lesson 7. Understanding the Continuum of Services

This lesson stresses IDEA's requirement for individualized education programs that promote the least restrictive environment, ensuring students with disabilities are educated alongside their peers whenever possible. It outlines the continuum of placements, from general classrooms to hospitals, and discusses the trend toward inclusive education supported by co-teaching models where general and special education teachers collaborate. 10 Total Points

Lesson 7 Video
Assessment: Lesson 7 Exam

Lesson 8. Early Intervention: Building Foundations for Future Learning

Early intervention programs provide significant benefits by addressing developmental issues early, enriching children's growth, supporting families, and laying a solid foundation for future learning. Research shows lasting positive effects of early intervention, even extending into adolescence and adulthood, particularly when interventions are focused on both children and their parents. 10 Total Points

Lesson 8 Video
Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam

Lesson 9. From High School to Independence: A Comprehensive Guide to Transition

Planning for the transition of students with disabilities is crucial and begins well before high school, involving educators, family, and natural supports to ensure these students are prepared for independent adulthood. With a focus on self-advocacy and realistic goals, students become active participants in their future success, whether in continued education, employment, or community involvement. 10 Total Points

Lesson 9 Video
Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam

Lesson 10. Teaching Practical Life Skills in Authentic Environments

CBI enables students with disabilities to learn and apply skills in real-world contexts, enhancing their independence, social skills, and future employment opportunities. The approach requires careful planning, collaboration with families, and the cooperation of local businesses to address logistical challenges, ensuring its success. 10 Total Points

Lesson 10 Video
Assessment: Lesson 10 Exam

Lesson 11. Empowering Families in the Special Education Journey

Mrs. Dunn broke through negative expectations by giving Charles responsibilities and positive reinforcement, leading to a transformation in his behavior and academic performance. This example underscores the broader importance of parental involvement in education, particularly for children with disabilities, as highlighted by the IDEA mandates and parental empowerment through advocacy and communication. 10 Total Points

Lesson 11 Video
Assessment: Lesson 11 Exam

Lesson 12. Empowering Through Cultural Responsiveness in Education

Culturally responsive teaching transcends traditional instruction by deeply integrating students' cultural contexts into the learning experience. This approach is essential not only for fostering inclusive environments but also for enhancing critical thinking, motivation, and the social-emotional development of marginalized students. 11 Total Points

Lesson 12 Video
Assessment: Lesson 12 Exam

Lesson 13. Universal Design in Education: Teaching All Students

Universal design principles in education help create inclusive lessons that engage all students, including those with disabilities, by offering multiple means of engagement, action, and representation. Accommodations and modifications can further tailor educational experiences, ensuring students with disabilities access the curriculum effectively. 9 Total Points

Lesson 13 Video
Assessment: Lesson 13 Exam

Lesson 14. Leveraging Technology for Equitable Education

Use of technology in classrooms has revolutionized learning outcomes for students with disabilities, promoting self-reliance and reducing anxiety. This lesson addresses assistive technology benefits, practical applications, and related challenges like cost and required educator training. 10 Total Points

Lesson 14 Video
Assessment: Lesson 14 Exam

Lesson 15. Key Assessment Strategies in Special Education

Criterion-referenced tests assess student knowledge against specific standards, while norm-referenced tests compare student performance to peers, both serving distinct roles in educational evaluation. These assessments are crucial in special education for understanding a student’s position relative to both preset learning objectives and peer performance. 10 Total Points

Lesson 15 Video
Assessment: Lesson 15 Exam

Lesson 16. Building Blocks of Literacy: Essential Reading Instruction

The ability to read is critical for accessing information and improving life opportunities, yet many struggle with literacy, particularly students with disabilities, emphasizing the need for effective, research-based literacy education that applies broadly. Core components like phonemic awareness, alphabetic code mastery, fluency, and comprehension, alongside methodologies like Orton-Gillingham, Barton, and Lexia, are pivotal for developing reading skills and supporting those with learning needs. 10 Total Points

Lesson 16 Video
Assessment: Lesson 16 Exam

Lesson 17. Conceptual vs. Procedural Math Learning

High-quality math instruction can significantly benefit students with disabilities, who face challenges due to the abstract nature of math and related cognitive difficulties. By employing effective strategies and providing meaningful engagement, educators can greatly enhance the learning experience for these students. 10 Total Points

Lesson 17 Video
Assessment: Lesson 17 Exam

Lesson 18. Mastering Behavior: Techniques for a Positive Classroom

In today's educational landscape, teachers face diverse behavior challenges, ranging from disruptive to violent actions, which can be influenced by various internal and external factors. By employing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and crafting individualized plans, educators can address these behaviors by promoting positive responses and establishing clear, consistent expectations. 9 Total Points

Lesson 18 Video
Assessment: Lesson 18 Exam

Lesson 19. Effective Strategies for Special Education

Working with students with severe disabilities requires educators to implement research-based strategies, enabling progress in areas like academics and social skills. Through structured teaching environments, such as general education inclusion and self-contained classrooms, students can achieve meaningful social and educational growth. 10 Total Points

Lesson 19 Video
Assessment: Lesson 19 Exam

Lesson 20. Navigating the Challenges and Triumphs of Special Education

Teaching students with disabilities involves isolating environments, managing extensive paperwork, and developing profound relationships with students. Success in this field relies heavily on possessing organizational skills, adaptability, and a deep belief in every child's learning potential. 80 Total Points

Lesson 20 Video
Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments
Assessment: Lesson 20 Exam
Assessment: The Final Exam

271

Total Course Points

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

Describe the equal opportunity foundation.
Describe the emergence of equal opportunity ethics.
Describe legitimizing the equal opportunity ethic.
Describe equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
Summarize the three self-determination revolutions.
Describe equalizing educational opportunities for black students.
Describe applying the equal opportunity principle for students with disabilities.
Explain how equal opportunity affects self-determination.
Explain how special education affects students with disabilities.
Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.

Additional Course Information

Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online

View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media

Course Title: Introduction to Special Education

Course Number: 9770591

Lessons Rating: 4.39 / 5 Stars (2,450 votes)

Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries

Category:

UniversalClass.com > Special Education > Learning Disabilities

Availability: This course is fully available online in all 50 states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. It’s also offered in major English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Ireland.

Last Updated: December 2023

CEU Value: 1.1 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)

CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).

Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.

Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes

Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams

Proctor: UniversalClass Instructional Team

Syllabus: View Syllabus

Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

"This course was very helpful because I work in Special Ed as a Paraprofessional. I would recommend it to everyone." -- Wendy B.
"This was such a beneficial class for me. Though I have been a Special Education Teacher for three years now, my program did not go into this amount of depth. I feel I can go back to teaching as a better teacher. Thank you so much!" -- Lisa S.
"This course was really helpful, it helps me to learn more about kids with disabilities and I think everyone should know all of it." -- Busin M.
"I thought this course was extremely helpful. It did a great job of starting with the timeline of special education. I liked the breakdown of information from high and low-incidence disabilities to IEPs, transition, assessments, etc. Again, I thought the course did a great job in helping me understand special education on a level that I can understand." -- Anna S.
"I think it is a very helpful course and gives great information on Special Education." -- Elizabeth T.
"This course was extremely helpful." -- Hayley R.
"I really enjoyed it very much!" -- Kimberly A.
"This has been a very helpful course." -- Katie K.
"The course contained a wealth of information on issues affecting special education. There was prompt feedback regarding questions that I had, as well as prompt reporting of test results. I felt that the instructor was very attentive to my progress in the course." -- Therese B.
"The lessons and texts provided were very comprehensive and informative." -- Therese B.