This course is designed to provide students with effective methods for supporting students with varying learning needs. This course delves into a variety of instructional strategies, including differentiated instruction, high leverage practices, and universal design for learning (UDL), which emphasize adapting teaching methods to meet the individual needs of students. Educators will learn how to create engaging lesson plans that incorporate multisensory approaches, allowing students to connect with the material in meaningful ways. Additionally, the integration of technology is a key focus, exploring how assistive technologies and digital tools can enhance learning experiences and facilitate communication. The course includes 2 credit hours of on-the-job training (OJT), providing hands-on experience in real classroom settings where participants can apply learned strategies, collaborate with experienced educators, and observe the impact of tailored methods and technology. Prerequisite: Admission to the Exceptional Student Education BS.

This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks and ethical principles governing exceptional student education. The course covers key legislation such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), emphasizing the rights of students with disabilities and the responsibilities of educators and schools. The course includes 1 credit hour of on-the-job training (OJT), where students gain practical experience in educational environments with experienced teachers. Prerequisite: Admission to the Exceptional Student Education BS.

This course is focused on preparing students with the skills to effectively manage behavior and create a positive classroom environment for students with special needs. This course explores various behavior management techniques. Students will learn how to implement effective classroom management strategies that foster student engagement, minimize disruptions, and promote a supportive learning atmosphere. The course also emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with students and collaborating with families to support behavior change. A key component of the course includes 2 credit hours of on-the-job training (OTJ), where students gain practical experience in real educational settings. During this training, students will have the opportunity to observe and apply behavior and classroom management strategies under the guidance of experienced teachers. Prerequisite: Admission to the Exceptional Student Education BS.

This course provides the teacher candidate opportunities to develop and practice effective teaching and management strategies for elementary classroom teachers to use in all classrooms. Teacher candidates will complete assignments and practice methods and strategies developed in this course during field work in EDG 4942.

This course is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and its associated disabilities. Students will explore the characteristics, theories, and research surrounding ASD, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. Students will learn about evidence-based practices for supporting individuals with ASD in educational settings, including tailored instructional strategies, communication techniques, and social skills development. Additionally, the course addresses the role of family and community in supporting individuals with ASD and emphasizes the importance of advocating for practices that provide access and opportunity for all learners. Key topics include sensory processing issues, behavioral interventions, and the impact of co-occurring conditions. Prerequisite: Admission to the Exceptional Student Education BS.

This course equips students with the knowledge and skills to support individuals with moderate to severe disabilities in educational settings. Topics include evidence-based instructional strategies, multi-sensory teaching, assistive technology, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Students learn to create supportive classroom environments, promote independence through personalized plans, and foster social skills through structured interactions. The course includes 2 credit hours of on-the-job training (OJT), offering hands-on experience, observation of effective practices, and collaboration with experienced exceptional student education professionals. Prerequisite: Admission to the Exceptional Student Education BS.

This course focuses on the application of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles within educational environments. Students will explore how ABA can be utilized to enhance teaching practices, promote positive behaviors, and support students with a variety of learning needs, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities. The curriculum covers foundational concepts of behavior analysis, including reinforcement, antecedent modifications, and behavior intervention strategies tailored for classroom settings. Students will learn to conduct functional behavior assessments to identify the underlying causes of challenging behaviors and develop individualized behavior intervention plans based on data-driven insights. Students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective ABA techniques in their classrooms, enabling them to address behavioral challenges, promote positive student interactions, and enhance overall learning outcomes for all students.