MODULE 1: Mild Disabilities and Special Education Law

Disability Awareness

Please read Chapters 1 and 11. This section is worth 45 points

Please answer each question in a comprehensive yet concise manner. Do not exceed 5 typed pages. Those of you who have taken my classes before know the following:

a. Be specific and provide examples from the module and from the text.

b. Cite text and page number.

c. Type the answers in your own words.

d. DO NOT speak in generalities or provide your opinion in the absence of research to substantiate. For example, " Many leaders in the field of education believe that all students with disabilities should be fully included (e.g., Stainback and Stainback; Kauffman, chapter 6, pg. 219). I also hold the belief ..." Please read the book and online information. Do not guess!

1. Explain the following statement and its implications to you as an educator. “Diversity of students simply defined as the condition of being different (ethnic, cultural, linguistic, gay/lesbian, disabled, poor, etc.), is at odds with a system of education that requires conformity and assimilation in an unyielding curriculum.” (Diversity).

2. Explain the importance of the IDEA.

3. Describe the concept of the least restrictive environment. Why is it important for students with disabilities? Refer back to IDEA.

4. Define "mild" disabilities.

5. List and describe two cognitive, physical, academic, behavioral-emotional, and communicative reasons for needing special education (Educational Differences).

6. List three possible reasons for the increase in the numbers of students enrolled in special education (Increase due to various factors).

7. Define the types of special education services and state the advantages and disadvantages of each (Continuum of services)

8. Discuss the issue of over-representation and under-representation of specific populations in special education.

9. Discuss the role of early legislation in providing a foundation for IDEA. Also, list and discuss relevant court cases that established a right to education for persons with disabilities.

MODULE 1: This Section is worth 55 points

Case Study

Please read chapters 1 and 11. This is a large chunk of reading. Please start reading as soon as the class begins. You will have three weeks to complete this project. The narrative should not be over 5 pages, not including references. Please read the scenario first. As you read the text and online information, you may want to take notes. Please note that you are not to exceed 5 pages in the narrative-- more is not necessarily better.

First, you (give yourself a name) are to serve as the lead special educator in a public elementary school meeting in which 20 parents and their children have been invited to attend. Also included in the meeting are the school principal, another special education teacher, and the school counselor.

Second, as the special education teacher representative, you will answer the specific questions asked by the parents, etc. You must relay all information in a precise and understandable manner. Address each question or concern as if you were actually speaking to a parent.

Third, be sure to respond to each concern or question. The percentage distribution is indicated on the rubric.

Fourth, utilize your book, module online information, and scholarly articles that you find relevant (please list references if you do this).

Fifth, I need specifics. Please do NOT address these questions in an incomplete or general way.

Lastly, you may "lump" responses as you see fit. Underline words that address the concerns or questions asked of you. Please refer to the rubric for guidance. Also check your calendar for the due date.

Module Two

IDEA Disability Category Assignment: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders

Page 90-130, 177-213, 429-432.

100 Points

Disability Category

After you have read the chapter, reviewed the two case studies at the beginning of the Module, reviewed the Websites, and all information contained in this Module, I ask you to answer a series of questions. Responses should be at least (minimum) a paragraph in length and reference the course material presented in the text, WebCT, and the Websites to receive full credit. You should review the Scoring Guidelines (rubric) for details. Please submit no more than five pages (be concise).

1. Define the disability category of emotional/behavioral disorders and how one qualifies for IDEA services under this category. Be very specific and detailed. How might you operationalize the definition to describe Jaime or Angela?

2. List typical conditions (disorders/types of disabilities) of individuals who may be classified under the IDEA category as having an emotional/behavioral disorder. Describe a minimum of 4 conditions. Please use Jaime or Angela to support two of the conditions identified.

3. What are the believed causes of emotional and behavioral disorders? Your response must relate to all theoretical models.

4. What is the difference between a Type I and a Type II behavior disorder? Examine Angela’s interview and Jaime’s interview. Provide a rationale for identifying them as falling under the category of Type I behavior disorder or Type II behavior disorder.

5. What is the prevalence of emotional and behavioral disorders? What factors influence these figures?

6. Service needs/Community needs - Identify at least 3 services in which Jaime and/or Angela may benefit from. Where is that service located in your town/city? What type of service does it provide? Please provide the address and telephone number.

7. Identify Educational/Learning challenges for students identified as E/BD.

8. Identify and explain 4 common behavioral/social interventions.

9. Please list and describe any medications students identified as E/BD commonly utilize

10. Identify student behaviors required for success in the general education classroom.

No more than 5 pages

100 points

Given the information you have acquired from the online text, book, links, etc., please create your own case study of a student with an emotional or behavioral disability. Utilize the “Disability Category on E/BD” to guide you in your narrative. I will be grading based on evidence of those 10 indicators described in the previous assignment. Please be descriptive. I do not want definitions but descriptions of what a student with “E/BD” may look like— You may write your case study from a first person point of view or a third person point of view. You may choose to describe your narrative in the personal pronoun, such as Angela and Jaime, or you may take the role of a teacher, counselor, parent, etc.