EDU 658: Understanding Special Populations & Building Collaborative Relationships Across Home, School & Community for All

This course examines the nature of children (uniquely abled, English Language Learners), their family structures and challenges specific to professional interaction with community agencies and advocacy regarding the transition of special populations (planning, implementation and collaboration with agencies). Candidates will investigate the nature, needs and implications for education programming, curriculum, and instruction for children identified as “special populations” including: physical disabilities, cognitive impairments, Autism and other developmental disabilities in both inclusive and out-of-district placements; as well as challenges for English Language Learners. Topics will be presented in broad terms addressing both typical and special populations served in schools and viewed through the lens of the lifecycle of the school-aged learner, as well as, addressing the person-centered transition planning model for special populations transitioning to adult service agencies.