Nature and Issues of Disabilities
The nature, needs and problems of exceptional children and how these relate to educational provisions are studied. The status of individuals with disabilities in society will be emphasized. Federal and state laws ensuring the rights of individuals with disabilities will be stressed. The course has been designed around a lecture format. Audiovisual materials will be used extensively including videos and illustrative overheads developed for each instructional topic. The topical videotapes will be used to increase both student awareness regarding specific issues and student understanding of course content. Students should feel free to ask questions and engage in discussions related to any of the scheduled topics.

The purpose of the course is to provide knowledge and foster understanding of exceptional children. The course will additionally address educational provisions mandated by federal and state laws, which ensures the rights of all individuals with disabilities Because the course serves as the introductory course for those wishing to pursue professional licensure in the area of special education, the course is designed to emphasize a diagnostic/prescriptive approach to intervention and the delivery of services. The special education program is designed to prepare resilient teachers who are reflective problem-solvers.

What will you gain?

This course covers key initial Special Education Core Competencies for a Licensure

(8 VAC 20-21-430) program. The competencies covered include:

1.    Knowledge of the foundation for educating students with disabilities including: Historical perspectives, models, theories, philosophies, trends, characteristics, severity, developmental differences, patterns of development, medical aspects,  family influence, cultural/environmental related issues, educational implications and understanding of ethical issues and standards of professional behavior.

2.      An understanding and application of the legal aspects and regulatory requirements associated with identification, education, and evaluation of students with disabilities including: Legislative and judicial mandates related to education and special education, current regulations governing special education, and the "Rights and responsibilities" of parents, students, teachers, and schools as they relate to individuals with disabilities and disability issues.