Special Education Part One (June 2014)
Instructional Leader – Trudy Mauti
E mail: trudymauti@gmail.com
Cell Number: 416 577-7873
General Objectives and Learning Outcomes
This course is designed as an introduction to the areas of exceptionality, the models of service provided
in Ontario schools, and current issues in Special Education. Emphasis is on the adaptive, modifying and
supporting resources available to ensure the development of positive learning experiences for students
with special needs.
Candidates will:
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Gain awareness of the types of exceptionalities recognized in Ontario schools, the terms/labels
used and the various definitions, as well as the purpose and implications of such definitions,
used in the identification process (Reg. 181).
Acquire a brief historical overview of the field of Special Education, including some knowledge of
the overriding theoretical and cultural models in which our practices lie (i.e., medical, behaviour,
psychological, holistic).
Explore models of Special Education services (e.g., “cascade” of services; least restrictive/most
enabling) at both the provincial and local school board level, including specific examples of
inclusive education.
Gain basic knowledge of Ministry of Education criteria and standards impacting on all students,
funding, provincial assessments.
Be familiar with the Identification, Placement and Review Committee (IPRC) process, including
issues of parental involvement.
Gain familiarity with the characteristics thought to characterize exceptionalities through
identifying factors, and in terms of what schools commonly take to be identifying factors.
Understand that Special Education is itself an equity issue and begin to unravel issues of equity
inherent in our work (including race, gender, sexual orientation, language, class issues).
Understand the process of assessment and measurement through accommodations and
modifications, as well as the personalization of the learning process as it relates to Special
Education and the development of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
Be knowledgeable in terms of Ministry guidelines, support documents and instructional
materials and human resources that assist in classroom planning and instruction.
Reflect upon and dialogue with others regarding educational practices, beliefs and quandaries.
Demonstrate the ability to integrate information and communication technology into teaching
practice
Evaluation
This course is evaluated on a Recommended/Not Recommended basis. No grades will be assigned.
Candidates will receive feedback and responses to all submitted work based on the principles of
performance based assessment. The criteria will include proficiency in spoken and written English.
As in all university level written assignments, academic honesty is expected and required. You are
reminded that attendance, participation and completion of assignments support a recommendation
for final accreditation to the Ontario College of Teachers for the additional qualification of Special
Education Part 1.
The Ontario College of Teachers requires that candidates complete 125 hours of instruction before
they can be recommended for an additional qualification.
Classroom Time
- 70 hours (Face to Face Format)
On-line Modules (Moodle)
- 30 hours
Independent Study
- 25 hours
Attendance
In order to be recommended for additional qualification at the completion of each program all
candidates are required to adhere to the York University policy regarding attendance and
participation as follows:
Since the value of the program rests heavily on the collaborative experience, full attendance and
effective participation throughout the entire program are expected.
Full attendance at every scheduled session of the program is expected; however, exceptional
circumstances may arise that may prevent you from attending a particular session. Please ensure
that you have contacted the Instructional Leader with regards to any absences.
Arriving late and leaving early is considered a form of absence and will be documented. Candidates
will be required to make-up work missed during their absence. This work will be evaluated on the
same basis as other work assigned.
York University Library
You will have use of the Scott Library at York University for the duration of the program. A library
application form may be obtained on-line. When you go to the Scott Library for the first time you
must bring your completed library card application form along with an acceptable form of
identification (e.g., valid driver’s license) in order to obtain a library card. Please call 416.736.5170
for hours of operation.
If you have any questions regarding Cooperative policies and procedures please contact the Field
Development Office at York University:
Telephone: 416.736.5000 Fax: 416.736.5023
E-mail: fielddev@edu.yorku.ca