Althea Pennerman

Introduces core concepts and contemporary perspectives in the field of special education. Explores important topics that include the history of special education, current legislation, personnel and procedures, collaboration with parents/guardians and service providers, and needs of diverse learners, including English Language Learners and those who are gifted and talented. Identifies, applies and critiques effective research-based instructional approaches to teaching learners who have different needs. Incorporates realities of inclusive practices and provides opportunities for candidates to triangulate and reflectively apply course content through clinical experiences. Emphasizes the development of a professional disposition that values human differences. Includes clinical experiences. Prerequisite: Admission to Professional Teacher Education Program. Early Childhood and Double Major Prerequisites: ECED 352, ELED 305/202, 317, 397. Elementary Major Prerequisites: ELED 302, 305/202, 317, 397. Three hours per week with enhancement.

Provides a comprehensive study of the expectations of the Educative Teacher Performance Assessment (edTPA). Engage in formative experiences that model and support practical teaching skills and professional dispositions in preparation for demonstration and assessment of readiness to teach. Course is offered as an elective. May be taken twice for credit. Prerequisites: ECED 352; ELED 202, 302, 305, 317, 397. Three hours per week.

Reviews theories and aspects of cultural competence most relevant to teaching in diverse classrooms. Explores the ideals of freedom, democracy, justice, equality, equity and human dignity from the perspective of the family. Provides experiences that heighten candidates’ diversity awareness and sensitivity. Examines different beliefs, attitudes, values and practices that foster cultural and linguistic competence at the family level. The instructor may use different medium to study the topic. One hour per week.