"Exceptional Students: Preparing Teachers for the 21st Century" and "Educating Exceptional Students" are textbooks commonly used in courses related to
... [Show More] special education and teacher preparation. These textbooks aim to provide educators with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to effectively teach and support students with diverse learning needs. While the specific content covered may vary slightly between editions and versions, here is a general overview of what is typically taught in these textbooks:
Introduction to Special Education: Both textbooks typically begin with an introduction to the field of special education, covering foundational concepts, historical perspectives, and the legal and ethical frameworks that guide special education practice.
Understanding Exceptional Learners: Students learn about the characteristics and needs of exceptional learners, including those with disabilities, learning disorders, giftedness, and other exceptionalities. This section often covers various types of exceptionalities, their impact on learning and development, and strategies for supporting diverse learners.
Laws and Policies in Special Education: The textbooks provide an overview of the laws, policies, and regulations governing special education, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Students learn about their rights and responsibilities as educators, as well as the rights of students with disabilities and their families.
Assessment and Evaluation: Both textbooks cover assessment and evaluation practices in special education, including formal and informal assessment methods, standardized testing, progress monitoring, and individualized education plan (IEP) development.
Instructional Strategies and Differentiation: Educators learn about evidence-based instructional strategies and differentiation techniques to meet the diverse needs of exceptional learners. This includes Universal Design for Learning (UDL), differentiated instruction, assistive technology, and accommodations and modifications.
Collaboration and Inclusion: The textbooks emphasize the importance of collaboration among educators, parents, and other professionals to support students with disabilities effectively. They also discuss inclusive practices and strategies for creating inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.
Behavior Management and Positive Behavior Support: Educators learn about behavior management techniques and positive behavior support strategies to address challenging behaviors and promote positive social-emotional development in students with disabilities.
Transition Planning: Both textbooks cover transition planning for students with disabilities as they transition from school to post-school settings, including college, employment, and independent living. Students learn about the transition planning process, community resources, and support services available to students with disabilities.
Overall, "Exceptional Students: Preparing Teachers for the 21st Century" and "Educating Exceptional Students" provide a comprehensive overview of special education principles, practices, and strategies, equipping educators with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the diverse needs of exceptional learners in today's classrooms. [Show Less]