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Course Descriptions
Special Education
MSE 5001
Professional Portfolio
0 credits
This course is designed to assist the MSE student with the completion of the Professional Portfolio, which is the culminating activity for the MSE degree. As a non-credit experience, the course does not meet on a regular basis but requires that students meet with the appropriate adjunct advisor during the final semester of their degree experience and in anticipation of conferral of their degree.
MSE 7400
The Gifted and Talented Child
3 credits
In this course, students examine the various theories of intelligence in relation to talented students in K-8 classrooms. Emphasis is on the following: service delivery models, student selection/special populations, curriculum development, program implementation, meeting the social and emotional needs of talented students, program evaluation, and creativity and talent development.
MSE 7401
Curriculum in Elementary Special Education
3 credits
A framework for understanding current research in the area of curriculum for students with exceptionalities is provided. The course has a particular emphasis on portfolio assessment and learning styles. Students examine curriculum models and teaching techniques. The adaptation of lessons for students with exceptionalities is a major focus.
Prerequisite(s): Undergraduate or Graduate Classroom Management or Strategies for Effective Teaching course and passing scores on all sections of PRAXIS I
MSE 7402
Applied Behavior Analysis
3 credits
Understanding, interpretation, and use of behavioral programming in classroom management for special education are the focus of this course. An awareness of the role of behavior modification and reinforcement principles, cognitive and humanistic theories, in concert with the affective domain and self-esteem strategies are stressed. Emphasis is on the teacher's need to achieve maximum effectiveness in predicting and controlling behavior. The special education teacher and other professionals are equipped with the skills necessary to effectively manage the behavior of the children entrusted to their care.
MSE 7403
Diagnosis/Assessment/IEP Development for Exceptionalities
3 credits
Informal and formal assessments used in identifying exceptionalities are analyzed in detail. An emphasis is placed on the selection, administration, and interpretation of test results. The implementation of correction techniques for assessed weaknesses is explored. The formally evaluated strengths and weaknesses are developed into an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Standardized and informal test results are evaluated and analyzed in relation to student achievement, curriculum development, and instructional improvement. Special emphasis is given to individually administered achievement instruments in relation to intelligence test measures.
MSE 7404
Assistive Technology (MH, SED, LD)
3 credits
This course is designed to help professionals in schools understand assistive technology for students with disabilities. The main focus of the course is on students with mild mental handicaps, learning disabilities, or emotional disturbances. The meaning of assistive technology and methods of assessing students to match them with appropriate assistive technology are emphasized. Specific instruction in assistive devices will train the student in this relatively new area of special education.
MSE 7501
Introduction to Autism & Severe Disabilities
3 credits
This course provides an introduction to issues related to the identification and assessment of students with autism or severe disabilities. It also presents identification instruments, assessment systems and their relation to theoretical models about these disabilities, as well as reviews the relationship between assessment and educational planning.
MSE 7502
Educating Preschoolers with Special Needs
3 credits
The field of early childhood education is growing and changing. For children who are exceptional, this is a significant time for learning. This class will provide the student with information about preschoolers who have a variety of disabilities with strategies to plan for these children as they are included in the regular classroom. The class will investigate methods of instruction utilizing a theme approach to learning and developmentally appropriate practice. This class will also provide information about the law, inclusion, assessment, theories, individual planning, partnering with parents, and specific learning disabilities. Inclusion and successful completion of this course, and completion of other required MSE Option A courses, will add pre-k certification to the 1-8 certification in the State of Delaware.
MSE 8101
Severe Disabilities
3 credits
Students learn identification methods and teaching strategies for students with severe and multiple disabilities, including: autism, traumatic brain injury, deafness, blindness, orthopedic and other health impairments, and multiple handicaps. The concepts of inclusion and non-categorical educational identification and teaching are emphasized. A clinical component of observation and analysis of severe disabilities is included.
MSE 8102
Legislation and Implementation of Policy and Procedure
3 credits
Pertinent legislation at federal and state levels is reviewed. Emphasis is on the implementation of mandates, policies, and procedures. The course includes interpretation of psychological and other special reports, preparation of the special education teacher for multidisciplinary team meetings (MDT's) and meetings with parents and other professionals to develop the individualized education program (IEP).
Prerequisite(s): MSE 7403
MSE 8103
Supervision and Evaluation of Special Education Programs
3 credits
Students study the relationship of research in special education to program development, administration, supervision, and evaluation. Administration of special education programs and how they interface with state, district, and school administration policies and procedures are a focus. Students are required to develop a written plan for a research-based special education program that includes personnel, methods, materials, staff development, relationship to other professionals, parent training, public relations, and budget.
Prerequisite(s): MSE 7401, 7402, 7403, 7404, 8101, and 8102
MSE 8802
Student Teaching in Special Education
6 credits
Students participate in a supervised clinical experience for a minimum of 40 full days for six credit hours. Each student is assigned both a cooperating teacher from a special education setting in a grade level from one through eight and a supervisor from Wilmington University.
Prerequisite(s): MSE 7401, MSE 7402, MSE 7403, MSE 7404, MSE 8102, MSE 8103, and MSE 8101; GPA of 3.0; passing scores on PRAXIS I and the appropriate PRAXIS II; and an approved application from the Office of Clinical Studies. Applications must be submitted by October 1 for spring placements or March 1 for fall placements.