500

This course focuses on characteristics, identification, and initial methods of instruction for cross-categorical P-21 students who receive special education services. Emphasis is on historical, philosophical, psychological, legal, and pedagogical implications and issues pertaining to P-21 special education. Candidates develop and implement inclusive, differentiated curricular design, planning and instructional methods for P-21 students with high- and low-incidence disabilities based upon consideration of the impact that disabilities have on how students differ in approaches to learning. Candidates learn how to provide inclusive instructional opportunities and supports adapted to strengths and needs of diverse learners, drawing on knowledge of the discipline, students, community, and curriculum goal(s). Fifteen field hours required. Pre-requisite(s): Pass Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP) before admission to this course. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course provides an overview of the processes involved in educational and diagnostic assessment of children and adolescents (P-21). Attention is given to both formal (e.g. norm-referenced) and informal (e.g., classroom-based) assessments, screenings, of assessment bias, and limits of testing. Special emphasis is directed towards interpreting assessment results and connecting assessment to instruction. The role of the special educator as a collaborative consultant and multidisciplinary team member is also considered. Legal, ethical, and cultural/linguistic assessment issues are addressed. A minimum of 10 hours of field experience is required. Pre-requisite(s): SPE 500, SPE 506 or advisor approval. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

In this course, the theoretical, clinical, and pedagogical issues concerning school-aged students (PK to 21 years) with language-learning disabilities are explored. The relationship between language and communication challenges and learning is presented. Etiological theories, biological bases, and characteristics of various language difficulties are reviewed. The language of classroom instruction is explored, along with the features and demands of conversational, narrative, instructional, and classroom discourse. Assessment and intervention approaches are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on viewing language functioning in the context of cognitive, perceptual, motor, and psychosocial issues. Public policy regarding the education of students with language challenges and language differences is considered. Pre-requisite(s): SPE 500, SPE 506. Co-requisite(s): None. 2 semester hours

This course provides foundational frameworks of special education and resulting implications for policy and practice. Candidates learn characteristics of high and low incidence disabilities and interpret discourses of disability to understand their influence on the everyday lives of teachers and students. Major issues of special education theory and practice are addressed, including: the history of policies and practices, diagnosis, curriculum, pedagogy, legal, ethical, and political issues, and the impact of values and beliefs on special education practice. Collaborative models and structures are emphasized in working with team members including students, families, school professionals, para-educators, and administrators. Collaborative practices are taught. 15 hours of preclinical experience are required for this course. Pre-requisite(s): SPE 500 or concurrent with SPE 500. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course is designed to explore methods of supporting students' positive social and emotional development, behavior, and learning. Social, psychological, biological, and environmental factors that impact students and teachers are examined. Legal issues, evaluation, and ethical considerations related to students' social and emotional growth and classroom behavior are explored. The importance of viewing behavior as communication and the interaction of various disabilities and behavior are emphasized. Current research, pedagogical approaches, and best practices in creating healthy classrooms and school environments are addressed. The use of technology to provide adaptations, progress monitoring, and/or assistive devices that can be used to encourage student participation are considered. Ten pre-clinical hours are required. Prerequisite(s): MAT candidates: SPE 500, SPE 501, SPE 502 or SPE 526, SPE 526. Non- MAT candidates register for this course through advisor. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course introduces foundational perspectives and methods for teaching multiple forms of literacy to students with disabilities. The purpose of critical literacy is often thought of as the use of reading and writing to empower students to achieve social equity. The course examines contemporary understandings of literacy (listening, speaking, reading, writing), other forms of communication (e.g., gestures, communicative behavior), and their usefulness in facilitating literacy learning. Emphasis is placed on the inherent right of students with disabilities to use a variety of literacy forms as means of self-expression and communication, and to mediate various literacy contexts including content literacy in the general education curriculum. Ten hours of field work required. Pre-requisite(s): MAT candidates: SPE 500, SPE 501, SPE 502 or SPE 526, SPE 506, SPE 507, SPE 509, SPE 572. Non-MAT candidates register for course through advisor. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course is designed to address the assessment and instruction of literacy skills for students with a range of disabilities in P-21 instructional settings. Candidates will use both standardized and informal literacy assessment tools, analysis and interpretation of case materials, and methods and materials for the development of strategies to promote reading, spelling and written expression for students with disabilities in individual and small group settings. All candidates will be required to complete 10 hours of field work with this course. Pre-requisite(s): MAT candidates: SPE 500, SPE 501, SPE 506, SPE 502 or SPE 526, SPE 572. Non-MAT candidates register for course through advisor. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course addresses major theoretical perspectives and research on typical and atypical language development in young children; specific language disabilities; the relationship between communication delays and other areas of early learning and development; and alternative communication systems for young children with disabilities. Procedures will be taught to assess and teach a full repertoire of communication skills to young children. Issues of developmental risk, early identification, screening and diagnostic assessment of communicative competence are addressed and a variety of intervention models, strategies, and programs are presented. This course addresses standards required by the Illinois State Board of Education for Early Special Education approval. Prerequisite(s): SPE 500. 2 semester hours

This course focuses on understanding and implementing state and national standards in the assessment and teaching of mathematics from a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) perspective as related to the general and special education curricula. In this course candidates engage in critical evaluation, planning and organization of curricula, assessment approaches, instructional methods, and instructional assistive technology for students with disabilities. 10 field hours are required as part of this course. Pre-requisite(s): Admission to NCE and the MAT or MED Special Education program; SPE 500, SPE 501, SPE 502 or SPE 526, SPE 506, SPE 507, SPE 509,SPE 572. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course provides an in-depth study of how to plan a comprehensive intervention program for children and adolescents challenged with Word Finding. Definitions of word finding will be discussed, and WF characteristics and profiles will be reviewed. Psycholinguistic models of lexical access will be presented. An intervention program for word finding, based on child and adult psycholinguistic research, will be studied with a focus on retrieval strategy mnemonic instruction, word-finding based classroom accommodations, and self-advocacy training. The impact of word-finding difficulties on oral reading and written language will be explained. Corresponding technology applications will be considered throughout. There is a field component focused on application of course content. Pre-requisite(s): SPE 500, SPE 502, SPE 506 or consent of instructor. Co-requisite(s): None. 1 semester hour

Differentiated assessment and instructional procedures are explored for students with Expressive Language Difficulties due to disability or second language learning. Focused on children and adolescents, this course provides a study of: 1) definitions/ characteristics representative of this population; 2) theoretical models to explain/contrast Receptive and Expressive language processing in oral language, oral reading, and writing; 3) the impact of language difficulties on academic learning; 4) language-based differentiated assessment and instruction for classroom discourse, oral reading, and written language instruction; and 5) corresponding instructional technology applications. There is a field component focused on application of course content. Pre-requisite(s): SPE 500. Co-requisite(s): None. 2 semester hours

This course is designed to address the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of individualized curriculum and instruction. Emphasis is placed on current best practices in individualizing curriculum and instructional methods for students with both high incidence and low incidence disabilities. The course will focus on a planning and implementation process for incorporating general education learning standards, differentiated instruction, adaptations to the general education curriculum, ecological assessment, IEP development, systematic instruction, self-advocacy and self-determination, and providing instruction in general education and community settings. All students will be required to complete 15 hours of fieldwork as part of this course. Prerequisite(s): SPE 500. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

The purpose of this course is to examine how teachers can implement developmentally and individually appropriate methods for fostering the social, emotional, cognitive, communication, adaptive, and motor development and learning of young children with special needs in various settings such as the home, the school, and the community. Through discussion and hands-on learning activities, teachers will learn to design and adapt learning environments to support optimal development and adapt curricular activities and materials in ways that will enable active and full participation of all children in various types of programs. This course includes 15 hours of preclinical experiences. This course addresses standards required by the Illinois State Board of Education for Early Childhood Special Education Approval. Prerequisite(s): SPE 500. 3 semester hours

This course is designed to explore a wide variety of developmental and educational assessment strategies, procedures and formal and informal instruments and techniques for assessing young children's social, emotional, cognitive, communication and motor skills as well as family concerns, priorities, and resources. Students will use various instruments and techniques to assess home and community learning environments and conduct formative and summative individual and program evaluations. Non- discriminatory use and interpretation of test results, the integration of information from multiple sources, and collaboration with parents and various professionals will be emphasized in writing reports. This course includes 15 hours of preclinical experiences. This course addresses standards required by the Illinois State Board of Education for Early Childhood Special Education Approval. Prerequisite(s): SPE 500, EPS 500 or EPS 511, SPE 532. 3 semester hours

Students build on knowledge about special education to create strategies for developing positive and supportive relationships with families of young children with special needs, including the legal and philosophical basis for family participation in assessment and support of young children. Students will develop strategies for working with socially, culturally, and linguistically diverse families to create and implement Individual Family Services Plans (IFSPs) that provide family-centered services to support learn various strategies and models for promoting effective consultation and collaboration with professionals and agencies within the community. This course includes 15 hours of preclinical experiences. Pre-requisite(s): SPE 500 or equivalent. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

With the goal of effective transition planning and design, candidates will create individualized instructional opportunities for diverse learners in school, vocational, domestic and community environments. Job seeking, career education, community environment matching and technical education methods will be emphasized with meaningful participation of student transition teams. Candidates will learn how to develop, support, adapt and modify least-restrictive domestic, work and community based activities and programs. Design of natural support systems for all outside school environments will be promoted in a meaningful, motivating and engaging manner. Pre-requisite(s): LBS 1 Licensure. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course is designed to enable candidates to learn and understand philosophical, historical and legal foundations of special education that apply to preparation and planning for transition from school to post-school. The impact that disabilities have on the cognitive, physical, emotional, social and communication development of an individual is included in activities for school to post-school transition. Provision of opportunities that support intellectual, social and personal development of the individual to engender a meaningful transition are illustrated. The scope and role of a transition specialist is included in addition to the scope and role of agency partnerships and personnel. Focus on demonstrating collaborative relationships with individual, family, school and community participants is emphasized in delivery of transition-focused education services. Pre-requisite(s): LBS1 licensure. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

Candidates will learn and understand the importance of creating effective communication techniques to foster collaborative relationships with students, families, professionals, paraeducators and human service agencies for an effective transition. Through meaningful collaboration, candidates will learn and understand educational assessment strategies that promote continual development of students during a school to post-school transition. Assessments include formal and informal career and vocational assessment and identifying student preferences and matching them to meaningful community and employment activities. Techniques for involving community partners are illustrated. After assessing student preferences and abilities, a process for creating measurable post-school goals will be taught with alignment to instructional activities that promote an effective transition. Pre-requisite(s): LBS 1 licensure. CO-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course enables future special education directors to understand special education financial management in the context of local, state, and federal finance frameworks. It addresses funding structures and procedures involved in planning, creating, managing, and justifying expenditures; budget development and management; fiscal accountability to stakeholders; stewardship of public dollars; maximization of funds; and procurement of contract services. Candidates learn how to meet programmatic and student needs within fiscal parameters. The director's role as intermediary between district and special education cooperative is analyzed within a systems perspective. Pre-requisite(s): MAT, M. Ed, or C.A.S in Special Education. State of IL Professional Educator License endorsed for general administrative or principal. SPE 561. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course is the first of four which prepares students for the LBSII: Technology Specialist advanced level state certification. It introduces and develops key components of and influences on the changing discipline of assistive technology, including interactive learning theories, funding, legislation, school and home environments, systems change, leadership and advocacy, and professional development. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 15 hours of field experience as part of this course. Prerequisite(s): Learning Behavior Specialist I and SPE545 or its equivalent. 3 semester hours

This course is designed to enable candidates to apply strategies related to the process of selecting, implementing, and interpreting assistive and instructional technologies, especially for students with disabilities (e.g. learning disabilities, autism, cognitive challenges). Candidates will learn to make connections between technologies, pedagogies, and curriculum through development of appropriate instructional programs. This course will help candidates become reflective participants in identifying effective research-based components in technologies and utilizing them in ways that fit the existing curriculum and pedagogical conditions of the educational settings. Prerequisite(s): None. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course will provide a hands-on examination of assistive technology usage related to teaching and learning and successful integration of individuals with disabilities. Current technologies which can empower individuals with disabilities to access their total environment throughout the lifespan will be explored. The focus includes technology Applications of AT in the school, home, community, and workplace. Prerequisite(s): Learning Behavior Specialist I certification, SPE 545 or equivalent. 3 semester hours

This course explores legal requirements unique to the role of Director of Special Education. The focus concerns legal, regulatory and ethical factors. It covers historical context and the framework of special education legislation and case law. Content includes an overview of major special education federal, state, and local laws and regulations and relationships existing among them. Primary areas addressed include procedural and substantive legal requirements, differentiation between individualized educational plans and accommodation plans, disciplinary actions for students with special needs, due process and mediation. Other legal aspects involve inter-agency contractual legal obligations, dealing with attorneys, and communications with multiple stakeholders. Pre-requisite(s): MAT, M.Ed., or C.A.S. in Special Education. State of Illinois administrative endorsement or equivalent from another state; SPE 561. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

Focusing on models used to differentiate instruction in the least restrictive environment, candidates will learn how to expand options for teaching strategies, instructional groupings, skill sequences, lesson formats, instructional environments, and educational materials. Candidates will examine ways to monitor and report student progress, incorporate therapies within the classroom, create a safe classroom climate, and effectively collaborate with colleagues, families, students and the community. Candidates in this course will develop quality educational programming for students with a wide range of abilities, learning styles, gifts, and interests. Pre-requisite(s): None. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

Candidates will understand the importance of creating responsive learning environments to enhance the education of all students in inclusive settings. Candidates will explore learning styles, cultural diversity and classroom teaching instructional strategies that enhance the learning of all students. Additionally, candidates will examine concepts related to disability in the context of diversity using both historical and current socio-political, philosophical, psychological perspectives. They will further explore legislative, cultural and instructional implications for teaching students with disabilities in inclusive settings. Pre-requisite(s): None. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course explores the role administrative leadership and instructional supervision in the successful operation of a special education program. The course examines the nature and function of administrator and supervisor as instructional leaders and considers supervisory strategies that lead to organizational efficiency and effectiveness. Programmatic and academic solutions to unique problems are identified and discussed for possible implementation as they relate to exceptional children and adolescents. This course addresses special education laws and regulations, public and private organizations, personnel, budgets, delivery of service systems, collaboration, evaluation, accountability, parent relationships, and issues/trends in special education administration and supervision. Prerequisite(s): MAT, M.Ed., or CAS in Special Ed. and appropriate administrative certification, licensure or endorsement. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course familiarizes candidates with the field of special education and with the graduate special education programs of NLU. Candidates develop an initial understanding of learning environments that are accessible to and engage all P-21 students with disabilities. The range of roles and dispositions of the special education teacher is explored, with an emphasis on classroom and school-wide responsibilities, and collaboration with families and school professionals. The candidate is introduced to assistive technologies that support P-21 student learning, and to basic technologies that assist development and demonstration of their own professional competencies. For MAT candidates: 3SH (20 hours in field required); for MEd candidates: 2 SH (no field requirement). Pre-requisite(s): Admission to NCE and either the Special Education MAT or M.Ed. Program SPE 500, SPE 506; passing of TAP test. Co-requisite(s): None. 2 or 3 semester hours.

This course focuses on planning and implementing differentiated and inclusive curricula and instruction as related to the general education curriculum and legal requirements. Emphasis is placed on transition and comprehensive person-centered planning, self-determination, vocational instruction, functional and life-skills curriculum development and implementation, task analysis, and errorless learning strategies. Candidates will use present levels of performance to develop Individualized Education Plan (FEP) goals; objectives/benchmarks related to Illinois Learning Standards and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (FDEA) requirements are incorporated into instructional planning. Prerequisite(s): SPE 500, SPE 501, SPE 502 or SPE 526, SPE 507, SPE 508, SPE 523, SPE 572. Non- MAT candidates register for this course through their advisor. Co-requisite(s): None. 3 semester hours

This course is designed for teachers currently licensed in Illinois who wish to secure a subsequent Illinois teaching endorsement on their Professional Educator License in early childhood education; elementary education; middle grades education for science, English language arts, mathematics, or social science; secondary education for science, social science, English language arts, mathematics, or K-12 foreign language; or special education for LBS1. Candidates are assigned between 75 and 150 clock hours in a general education classroom at the new endorsement level. Pre-requisite(s): SPE 569. Completion of all content coursework as described on the transcript assessment. Completion of individualized professional development as determined by initial portfolio review. Application for practicum placement with checklist. Passing score on relevant ISBE content level test. Co-requisite(s): None. 4-6 semester hours

This course focuses on scope, sequence, planning, and implementation of language arts, reading, math, science, and social studies curricula for diverse learner classrooms. Emphasis is placed on developing lessons and integrated thematic units across general education content areas and the Illinois Learning Standards, (e.g., science, social studies, mathematics, and language arts) from a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction (Dl) perspective. Innovative curricular strategies are taught, emphasized, and incorporated into planning. Methods for addressing Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals/objectives/benchmarks and learning targets in an inclusive education model are covered. For learners needing further learning supports, accommodations and modifications are applied to curriculum 20 field hours are required. Pre-requisite(s): SPE 500, SPE 501, SPE 502 or 526, SPE 506, SPE 507, SPE 508, SPE 509, SPE 523, SPE 572. Co-requisite(s): SPE 573. 3 semester hours.

This course serves as a personal professional learning community in an ongoing experience in the special education graduate program for candidates in traditional residency or alternative teacher licensure programs. Participants integrate theory and practice in authentic settings with children and adolescents challenged with special needs. Candidates develop Individualized methods of collaboration between general and special education teachers and related service personnel and actively establish parental and community connections. The collaborative-consultation model is practiced through supervised experiences. Candidates develop and complete their eportfolio, Impact on Student Learning Analysis, Lesson Study as well as the edTPA. Pre-requisite(s): Admission to RTP or ATL SPE program; SPE 500. Co-requisite(s): None. 0.5-6 semester hours

This course is required for all candidates seeking a LBS II Certificate. This experience provides the candidates an opportunity to investigate carefully, systematically, and collaboratively some aspect of practice related to their desired LBS II credential; to describe and reflect upon their knowledge, skills, and dispositions for teaching; to evaluate and integrate theory and practice; to examine implications of practice for themselves, students and community; and apply information learned in the LBS II coursework. Candidates may enroll in the course for one semester hour for three terms in conjunction with other LBS II courses or can take it for variable credit (1-3) for a total of 3 credit hours. Pre-requisite(s): None. CO-requisite(s): None. 1-3 semester hours

This course is required for all candidates seeking a LBS II Certificate. This experience provides the candidates an opportunity to investigate carefully, systematically, and collaboratively some aspect of practice related to their desired LBS II credential; to describe and reflect upon their knowledge, skills, and dispositions for teaching; to evaluate and integrate theory and practice; to examine implications of practice for themselves, students and community; and apply information learned in the LBS II coursework. Candidates may enroll in the course for one semester hour for three terms in conjunction with other LBS II courses or can take it for variable credit (1-3) for a total of 3 credit hours. Pre-requisite(s): None. Co-requisite(s): None. 1-3 semester hour

This internship is required for all candidates seeking a LBSII Certificate. The seminar provides the candidates an opportunity to describe and reflect upon their knowledge, skills, and dispositions for teaching; to evaluate and integrate theory and practice; to examine implications of practice for themselves, students, and community; and apply information learned in the LBSII coursework. Candidates may enroll in the internship for one semester hour for three terms in conjunction with other LBSII courses or can take it for 3 credits. Students may repeat this course for up to 3 credits for each LBSII program. Prerequisite(s): Learning Behavior Specialist I Certification. This would be the final internship for LBSII candidates after taking three courses for either LBSII Curricular Adaptation Specialist or LBSII Assistive Technology Specialist. 1-3 semester hours

This course serves as the culminating experience in in the traditional special education graduate M.A.T. and M.Ed, programs. Candidates are given opportunities to integrate theory and practice, and to engage in best practices with children and adolescents with disabilities. Individualized Educational Plans (lEPs) for selected students are developed in collaboration with the cooperating teacher, and candidates design and implement related instruction. Candidates explore effective methods of collaboration between general and special education teachers and related service personnel and actively establish parental and community connections. The collaborative-consultation model is practiced through supervised experiences. Pre-requisite(s): Completion of all special education course work (listed below); Admitted to MAT, MED, or Alternative Certification programs in Special Education; Consent of the students' advisor and practicum coordinator. Application for practicum must be made in writing as determined by program guidelines and procedures. Tests # 155 AND # 163 (LBS I and Content Test) must be passed prior to placement. Student may not have any deficiencies in course work requirements. For all candidates, average grade of B or better in SPE 501, SPE 502 or SPE 526, SPE 506, SPE 507, SPE 508, SPE 509, SPE 523, SPE573, SPE 574. For MAT candidates completion of: SPE 500, ESP 511, FND 510; average grade of B or better in SPE 500, SPE 502 or SPE 526, SPE 506, SPE 507, SPE 572. For MED candidates, completion of: EPS 541, ESR 505, FND 511; average grade of B or better in: SPE 502 or

Provides graduate students in a special education degree program an opportunity to pursue advanced scholarly study in special areas where they seek further information, or to investigate a practical school problem. Special forms may be obtained from the Graduate Administrative Office and must be signed by the student's instructor, faculty advisor, department chair, and associate dean of the graduate school. On-campus registration. Prerequisite: Degree status in Special Education. 1-3 semester hours