SPE 531 Characteristics of Mental Retardation (MR) & Developmental Disabilities

Course Description

This course examines issues related to the instruction of students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. Attention is given to legal foundations, learner characteristics, and instructional considerations. Emphasis is placed on collaborating with families with children with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

Topics and Objectives

Philosophical, Historical, and Legal Foundations of Special Education of Students with Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities

· Analyze the philosophical, historical, and legal foundations of mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Analyze current definitions and issues of students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Evaluate current perspectives on students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

Characteristics of Learners

· Summarize the causes and theories of mental retardation and developmental disabilities and implications for prevention and intervention

· Identify the medical aspects of students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Identify the psychological characteristics of students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

Assessment, Diagnosis, and Evaluation of Students with Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities

· Summarize the terminology used in the assessment of students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Analyze state/federal provisions, regulations, and guidelines regarding assessment and diagnosis of students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Identify conditions and assessment instruments that ensure maximum performance of students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

Planning and Managing the Teaching and Learning Environment

· Summarize the characteristics of an effective teaching environment for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Analyze a variety of programs for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Identify appropriate accommodations in the general education classroom setting for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

Managing Student Behavior and Social Interaction Skills

· Summarize the theories of behavior problems and behavior management techniques for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Analyze the impact of multiple disabilities on the behavior of students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Propose methodology and activities to gain social interaction skills for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

Instructional Content and Practice

· Compose a list of resources for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Identify various assistive technology devices for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Compare and contrast teacher-created materials with commercial materials for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

Communication and Collaborative Partnerships

· Identify family-centered services, networks, and organizations for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Compare and contrast family dynamics with and without a child with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

· Describe effective home-school partnerships for students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities

Professionalism and Ethical Practices

· Compose professional and ethical standards for working with students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities and their families

· Summarize relevant multicultural issues with regard to students with mental retardation and developmental disabilities