This course will focus on concepts of educational psychology with an emphasis on learning theories. Topics relating to diversity, including special needs students, and the impact of culture within the classroom’s learning and teaching environment plays a central part in the curriculum.

Prerequisite: EDUC 100

In this course the student will examine the various categories of exceptionality (gifted, mentally retarded, learning disabled, visual/ hearing/health impaired, physically disabled, and emotionally disturbed) by analyzing each category utilizing the following format: History, definition, prevalence, causes, characteristics, assessment, intervention, curriculum implications, mainstreaming, and future considerations. In-class learning activities will be supplemented by having the student participate in a laboratory experience that involves a 20-hour field placement in a special education setting. Graduate credit requirements are described in the course syllabus.

If this class is taken at the 500 level, it is a graduate course and expectations for student performance are at an advanced level. Evaluation of course requirements is more rigorous than at the lower division section of this course.

In this course the student will examine learning disabilities by studying the following: Theory of etiology, assessment, and teaching strategies utilized to remediate the disabilities. The course will also focus on other related topics such as the various types of assessment reports, the planning of individualized educational programs, the different systems for delivering special educational services, and future issues in the field of learning disabilities. Graduate credit requirements are described in the course syllabus.

If this class is taken at the 500 level, it is a graduate course and expectations for student performance are at an advanced level. Evaluation of course requirements is more rigorous than at the lower division section of this course.

This course will examine the theories of learning and the principles of psychology as a way of enhancing the understanding of student cognitive/psychological functioning.