Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description This module explores key concepts and theoretical perspectives associated with special educational needs, disability and inclusion, and the attendant implications for policy, legislation and practice. It will support teachers to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills to enact inclusive practice. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Examine the influence of context on definitions of special need and on the nature and purpose of different models of curriculum 2. Critically analyse the issues in policy, curriculum planning and practice within special and inclusive education 3. • Use their knowledge of the core issues, background and history of inclusive and special education to inform their study, discussions and practice 4. • Demonstrate their understanding of the concepts of inclusion and current debates on the issue by stating their considered personal perspectives 5. • Discuss the key principles of inclusive education and the factors associated with the successful practice of inclusion 6. • State the rationale for early intervention and the factors which determine its efficacy 7. • Apply their knowledge of the principles of assessment when administering diagnostic assessments to their learners 8. • Promote, develop and foster collaborative partnerships with all those working with their learners 9. • Use a variety of teaching and learning strategies, structure appropriate learning contexts and select resources, adapting where necessary, to suit the individual needs of learners they teach 10. • Plan and teach programmes in the specified curricular areas which are suited to the interests, strengths and areas for development of their learners 11. • Develop IEPs/Individual Support Plans for learners with SEN / identified support needs in collaboration with the learners, their parents, support/class/subject teachers and all those involved in the pupil’s education including the following elements: identification of learner interests, strengths and areas for development and the development of specific learning targets, appropriate teaching methods and resources, and evaluation of progress | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Indicative content • Inform students of the background and history of the development of special education internationally and in Ireland; the range of special educational needs, issues pertaining to designation of SEN categories and the core issues relating to special education (e.g. role of parents, legislation, rights, values, policy, provision) • Review and define the concepts of inclusion in education and examine the origins of inclusive education and current debated and dilemmas associated with this movement • Acquaint students with the key principles of inclusive education and the essential practices associated with successful inclusions based on research findings and best practice • Examine the current literature on early intervention in terms of its rationale and efficacy and examine the wider policy context supporting early intervention initiatives • Introduce students to the principles and purposes of assessment, planning and recording • Encourage students to foster a collaborative ethos and holistic approach to working in their schools and with all those involved with their learners with special educational needs • Assist students in the selection and adaptation of suitable approaches and methodologies with particular reference to differentiation for individual learner needs • Encourage students to examine the implications arising for teaching and learning in order to effectively deliver the curriculum • Guide students in devising a suitable individual education plan (IEP) / support plan in collaboration with others, and to incorporate a system of recording and evaluating learner progress | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles:
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Other Resources
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