Oct 23, 2026  
2026-2027 Academic Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Academic Catalog

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EDUC 2031 - Introduction to Special Education


Credits: 4

Catalog Description
This course will explore the essential role of special education in creating inclusive learning environments that address diverse learning needs. Students will examine the laws and policies that protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, investigate the various types of disabilities, and learn effective methods for identifying students with disabilities. By examining how disabilities intersect with other demographic factors, students will develop a more comprehensive view of the challenges these individuals face. Additionally, the course emphasizes the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders, equipping aspiring educators with the skills to communicate effectively across different audiences. Through the study of laws and legislation, case studies, first-hand accounts, and discussions, students will prepare to work with individuals with disabilities in K-12 educational settings. 

Prerequisite(s) (must have a grade of C or better): None
Prerequisite(s) (must have a grade of C or better) or Corequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Recommended Skills, Abilities, or Coursework: None

Additional fee to student: No

Learner Outcomes
  1. Articulate the development of special education from multiple perspectives (e.g., historical, legislative, regulatory, economic, social, and political).
  2. Describe the characteristics of individuals with exceptional needs, including incidence and prevalence, the etiologies of various disabling conditions, and the educational implications of various disabling conditions.
    • The teacher understands the exceptional needs of students, including those with disabilities and giftedness. (SEP 1- Student Learning, J)
  3. Examine the intersectionality of individuals with disabilities and other characteristics (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status).
  4. Summarize the processes for identifying and evaluating students with disabilities.
  5. Demonstrate instructional methods and strategies for meeting the needs of exceptional students.
  6. Describe the roles of various stakeholders in meeting the needs of students with exceptionalities.
  7. Describe methods of communication and collaboration with all stakeholders to best serve students with exceptionalities.

Major Areas of Course Content
  1. Special Education laws, policies, and procedures
  2. Disabilities and their characteristics, prevalence, and educational implications
  3. Methods and processes for identifying and serving exceptional children
  4. Intersectionality of disabilities with other demographics
  5. The roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in the special education process
  6. Communication and collaboration with team members, including students and families

Credit for Prior Learning Options
No credit for prior learning option is available for this course

Course Notes
This course includes embedded Standards of Effective Practice (SEPs) as mandated by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB).





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