What This Document Is
This is a comprehensive semester plan for SED 460: Education and Mainstreaming of Exceptional Persons, offered at the University of Detroit Mercy. It serves as a foundational roadmap for the course, outlining its structure, objectives, and the key areas of focus regarding the education of students with diverse learning needs. This plan details the course’s guiding principles and how they connect to the development of effective educators in the field of special education.
Why This Document Matters
This semester plan is essential for students enrolled in SED 460, providing a clear understanding of course expectations and the interconnectedness of topics. It’s particularly valuable at the beginning of the term for planning study schedules and grasping the overall trajectory of the course. Future educators will find it beneficial for contextualizing the specific content covered in lectures and assignments, and for understanding the broader philosophical underpinnings of inclusive education.
Topics Covered
* Historical context and current trends in special education
* Legal frameworks governing special education services (including IDEA and Section 504)
* Characteristics and classifications of various exceptionalities
* Principles and practices of mainstreaming and the “least restrictive environment”
* The role of the educator as a scholar, advocate, and ethical professional
* Understanding diverse learning styles and their impact on instruction
* Continuum of services available to students with disabilities
* The application of technology in special education
* Multicultural and gender considerations in learning and instruction
What This Document Provides
* A detailed course description outlining the scope of study
* Clearly defined course objectives linked to broader educational outcomes
* A conceptual framework outlining the core beliefs guiding the course
* An overview of the expected roles of a teacher within the field of special education
* A structured approach to understanding the complex landscape of exceptionalities
* Insight into the collaborative team approach required for effective student support.