Cur Dev,Inst Praclrng Envr&Colb Aut

Catalog description

In this course, various techniques for developing curriculum, instructional practices and learning environments for students with autism and other severe and multiple disabilities will be introduced. Strategies for giving these students an opportunity to participate in general education and access the curriculum in a meaningful way will be explored. Curriculum and instructional practices in literacy, math, science, and social studies will be explored. Collaborative development of programs, differentiated instruction, grouping, peer-assisted learning strategies and cooperative learning will be implemented. Procedures for generalization and maintenance of skills to be taught to students with autism and other severe and multiple disabilities in both general and specialized settings will be incorporated. Teaching new skills and the building and reinforcement of learned skills will be part of this course. Methods for the teaching of community, domestic and personal care skills with these students will be emphasized. The principles of universal design will be used to develop appropriate commercial and teacher-made materials that allow individuals with various disabilities to participate in the curriculum. The success of educational programs for students with severe disabilities may be directly related to the work of various professionals, including paraprofessionals, who positively collaborate. Strategies for such collaborative success will be addressed. The education of young children with autism and severe and multiple disabilities will be explored as well as transition to independent living for older students. Field experience in collaborative settings will be part of this course. (25 hours of field experience required).