Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
• Critically discuss the current discourses in relation to Disability, Additional Educational Needs, Diversity, Equality and Inclusion.
• Demonstrate knowledge of Irish equality and disability
legislation and make some comparison with legislation in other jurisdictions.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the causes and characteristics of a range of disabilities, including Specific Learning Difficulties (e.g. Dyslexia; Dyscalculia), General Learning Difficulties or Intellectual Disability, Language Impairment, Physical Disability and Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (Dyspraxia), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (SEBD).
• Show awareness of the implications of these disabilities for participation in mainstream education.
• Show familiarity with the most common interventions for pupils presenting with these disabilities.
• Critically examine various approaches to the organisation of provision for students with disabilities/additional educational needs, including an exploration of the role, if any, of special schools within an inclusive education system.
• Critically appraise schools from a systemic Organisational Psychology perspective and show awareness of the structures and processes necessary for the delivery of Inclusive Pedagogy within Inclusive Schools.
Indicative Module Content:
- Foundations in diversity and inclusion
- Historical, theoretical and political contexts for inclusive education
- Cultural and linguistic diversity and exceptionality
- Assessment, modification, and adaptation
- Instructional design and individualized support
- SEN category 1: Intellectual and developmental disabilities
- SEN category 2: Specific learning difficulties
- SEN category 3: Autism and ADHD
- SEN category 4: Physical and sensory needs
- Working with students from diverse backgrounds
- Collaboration and teaming in inclusive education