EDUC 578 - Low Incidence Teaching Strategies

(3 credits)

This course provides an overview of the major trends and issues in educating students with low incidence disabilities. Methods to deliver instruction in a standard aligned system to students with complex instructional needs will be covered. Students will be given instruction in accessing and using Alternate Eligible Content from Pennsylvania’s Standard Aligned System. The course embraces the principles of Project Max, now known as MAXimizing Academic Access, Expectations and Learning. The importance of language and vocabulary in daily living and academics will be examined, with an emphasis on the use of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) methods. Students will demonstrate understanding of the Standard Aligned Unit Planning Process (SAUPP) developed by PDE and of the principles of presuming competence. Valuable knowledge and hands-on experience will be gained as students learn techniques in seating and mobility, safe transfers, feeding and more. Collaboration with related service providers, paraprofessionals and agency employees will be addressed. Students will demonstrate and describe interventions and assistive technology that addresses the academic and functional areas of need in the student’s school day. This course fulfills all of the PDE Special Education candidate competencies for Professional and Ethical Practices.