1. Teacher Education
  2. CTE
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  4. CONT506: Special Education Specialist
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CONT506: Special Education Specialist

CONT 506
Continuing Teacher Education - Ontario
3 Units
Online
Learn more about CONT506

This course delves into the complex landscape of special education in Ontario, challenging educators to critically examine their roles and responsibilities in creating inclusive and equitable learning environments. You will explore the theoretical underpinnings of inclusive education, including critical pedagogy and intersectionality, while participating in discussions concerning the practical realities of Ontario's curriculum, policies and frameworks. You will critically evaluate assessment practices, individual education plan (IEP) development and the use of assistive technologies (AT), all through the lens of ethical leadership and the voices of those involved. This journey will require a deep dive into fostering collaboration and navigating the multi-faceted challenges and opportunities inherent in special education leadership.

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Learning Outcomes

What You Will Learn and Do

In this course, you will

  • examine theories and pedagogies about multiple forms of oppression and intersectionality in special education
  • identify the ethical responsibilities and commitments as leaders in special education in Ontario
  • evaluate critical pedagogy and its role in the design, assessment and implementation of programs and practices in special education
  • examine the Ontario curriculum, along with various board policies, frameworks, strategies and resources in place for special education
  • formulate inclusive processes to support development, implementation and monitoring of IEPs including transition planning for learners that include voices and perspectives of those involved
  • examine assistive supports, technologies and strategies to facilitate learning and foster inclusion for classroom and whole-school initiatives along with the ethical responsibilities related to Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, S.O. 2005
  • analyze assessment and evaluation processes and practices
  • develop processes, practices and strategies to foster collaboration with in-school personnel to support learning, well-being and leadership
  • reflect on the ethical and equitable use of AT use in current and future educational contexts

Assessments

Module 1

Preparing for Professional Inquiry

Module 2

Moving from Including to Championing
Progress Report 1

Module 3

Inclusive Frameworks

Module 4

Process for Special Education
Progress Report 2

Module 5

IEP Goals, Assessment and Evaluation

Module 6

Collaborative Leadership
Progress Report 3

Module 7

Consolidating Your Learning
Final Report