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ESS201 Understanding Diverse Learners (8)

Abstract

This subject introduces students to the education of children with diverse learning needs. It examines the historical development of 'special education' in Australia, the influence of policy and its impact on early intervention, integration and inclusion. The subject examines how developmental, social and cultural issues affecting children impact on educational decision-making and practice, families, their needs and how these influence the development and implementation of programs is addressed. The study of various models, practices and teaching strategies, students will increase students understanding of children with diverse abilities and develop skills in selecting and applying appropriate pedagogy to promote children's potential in various educational settings.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: ESS201
Where differences exist between the handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Teacher Education

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
-Be able to describe current definitions, policies and practices of early intervention, integration and inclusion relevant to children birth to 12 years old in Australia;
-Demonstrate an understanding of individual differences of young children 0-12 years with an appreciation of the range of diverse needs commonly encountered in educational settings catering to children in this age group;
-Have developed a good understanding of assessment strategies, instructional strategies and educational programming requirements for children with diverse needs in different educational settings;
- Be able to articulate their role with respect to different types of learner needs and have the capacity to respond educationally in sound, ethical and pedagogically competent ways;
-Be able to define the Individual Educational Program (IEP) and understand how it can be incorporated into the overall structure of a general education program;
-Be able to show an understanding of the professional sensitivities and support that should be given to the families of children with diverse needs;
-Be able to show an understanding of the transition process as it relates to special needs children moving between different educational settings;
-Be aware of the variety of technologies available to support children with diverse needs.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
-The social, legislative and educational basis for the philosophy of inclusion -Policy and practice of early intervention -Identification and assessment techniques -Professional sensitivities and support for families -Advocacy, funding, and program development -Instructional strategies and instructional design for different learner groups (e.g., gifted, sensory impaired, learning disabled) -Developing, implementing and evaluating teaching programs and Individual Educational Programs

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The information contained in the 2015 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 01 October 2015. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.