What This Document Is
This is a course syllabus for SPED 4040 at Western Michigan University, titled “Teaching Practicum in Assessment, Curriculum and Instruction.” It outlines the expectations, guidelines, and overall structure for a practicum experience focused on supporting learners with mild disabilities or those at risk within a general education environment. The syllabus serves as a foundational guide for students enrolled in this specialized education course.
Why This Document Matters
This syllabus is crucial for any student registered for SPED 4040. It’s particularly valuable at the *beginning* of the semester to understand course requirements, grading policies, and the instructor’s expectations. Future special education professionals will find it helpful to review the program outcomes and competencies detailed within, as they represent the core skills and knowledge emphasized throughout their training. It’s also beneficial for students seeking clarity on prerequisites and the relationship between this course and other related coursework.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This syllabus provides an overview of the course but does *not* contain the specific assignments, detailed lesson plans, or individual student feedback. It will not provide access to the actual practicum placements or the specific learners students will be working with. It also doesn’t include the detailed content from the required readings in SPED 4330 and SPED 4340, only that knowledge from those courses will be applied.
What This Document Provides
* Instructor contact information and office hours.
* A description of the course’s overall objectives and its place within the broader special education program.
* A list of program-level outcomes for special education graduates.
* Key competencies aligned with the CEC Common Core of Knowledge and Skills, specifically focusing on learning environments, language, and instructional planning.
* Prerequisites for course enrollment.
* An overview of the expected skills students will develop during the practicum experience.