SPE 100 - Children with Special Needs

Credits: 3
Lecture Contact Hours: 3
Description: This course is designed to introduce students to the topic of children/students with special needs. Included is the exploration of cognitive impairments, emotional impairments, learning impairments, visual and hearing impairments, orthopedic and/or other health impairments, giftedness and instructional strategies for these special needs. Students will complete three observations of children with special needs. Michigan Central Registry Clearance by the Michigan Department of Human Services may be required for this course. This course requires all students must meet the requirements of a criminal background check.

Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: ECE 110 if not taken previously or EDUC 110 if not taken previously.
Recommended: Individuals who hold a current or prior teaching certificate or are enrolled in the Education Transfer Program may be eligible to substitute PSYCH 249 or waive the corequisite. Discuss options with the department.

Course Category: Occupational
This Course is Typically Offered: Winter, Spring, Fall
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Course Competencies

Differentiate how typical child development is altered because of special needs conditions.
Distinguish characteristics of the major special needs categories: cognitive impairments, learning impairments, behavioral and emotional impairments, visual and hearing impairments, orthopedic and other health impairments and giftedness.
Identify the causes of stereotypes involving individuals with special needs.
Identify major pieces of legislation affecting persons of all ages with special needs including special education rules and regulations.
Plan appropriately for children/students with special needs included in school and other group settings.
Explore the role of resources in supporting students, families and educators dealing with the area of special education.
Explain the impact of a child with special needs on the family.
Identify attitudes and methods that will encourage the development of all children and adults to their greatest potential.
Identify the role of the community in relation to a person with special needs.
Discuss appropriate instructional strategies for children, youth and adults with special needs.
Explain the evolution of the field of special education from a historical perspective.
Investigate the Child Protection Law and Mandated Reporting of Suspected Abuse and Neglect.
Demonstrate professional behaviors.