Collaboration and Adaptation in General Education Course Information
SPEB 656 Collaboration and Adaptation in General Education
Course Description
In this course, candidates examine the importance and process of collaboration with family, classroom teachers, para-educators, and other school and community personnel in integrating individuals with disabilities into various social and learning environments. Candidates study the process of examining the learning environment and classroom demands combined with the learning characteristics of the student for the purpose of selecting appropriate strategies and materials. Candidates investigate techniques for modifying instructional methods, curricular materials, and environment as well as modification of state and local assessments and the use of behavior management plans. Specific attention will be given to effective co-teaching practices including communication skills, collaboration, co-planning and conflict resolution skills. The course addresses fostering positive interactions between students with and without disabilities. Candidates practice collaboration through involvement in exercises and projects within this course.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of the course the student should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge about historical and current issues in the field of curriculum studies through readings, discussions and reflections
- Examine the curriculum from the perspective of various curriculum theorists
- Expand the framework from which one makes decisions regarding curriculum
- Examine the relationship between measures of achievement and curricular decisions
- Explore the relationship between social, historical, and economical context and curricular priorities and emphases
Week 1
Lecture: Introduction
Lecture: Inclusion and Students with Disabilities
Outcomes
- Differentiate critical terms related to inclusion
- Identify the critical attributes of the Response to Intervention Approach
- Identify critical elements that support an inclusive setting
Week 2
Lecture: Collaboration
Outcomes
- Identify key collaboration and teaming characteristics and skills
- Become familiar with strategies for collaborating effectively with families
- Examine critical problem solving steps for an educational setting
Week 3
Lecture: Co-Teaching
Outcomes
- Identify different elements of teacher diversity
- Define co-teaching and co-teaching models
- Discuss critical planning elements for co-teaching
Week 4
Lecture: An Introduction to Modifications
Lecture: The Mix of the Student and Classroom
Outcomes
- Identify how modifications fit in to the IEP process
- Identify areas for which to consider modifications
- Determine key skills expected at various grade levels
- Distinguish the difference between “can’t and “won’t”
- Determine student factors that impact classroom functioning
Week 5
Lecture: Modification Processes
Outcomes
- Apply the elements of P.A.S.S.
- Apply the 9 types of adaptation
Week 6
Lecture: Instructional Considerations
Outcomes
- Identify research-based practices for students with disabilities
- Apply instructional support tools to their specific subject area/grade level
Week 7
Lecture: Tools and Considerations for Students
Lecture: Modification of Textbooks
Outcomes
- Identify tools that can provide support to students during independent work
- Discuss means of making classroom tests more accessible to students
- Identify the challenges textbooks present to students
- Become familiar with strategies to make texts more accessible to students
Week 8
Lecture: Assistive Technology
Lecture: Closing Thought
Outcomes
- Differentiate between an assistive technology device and service
- Distinguish low and high tech devices
The course description, objectives and learning outcomes are subject to change without notice based on enhancements made to the course. October 2011
