12498 (v.3) Ed 615 - Learning Difficulties

Area:

Department of Education

Credits:

25.0

Contact Hours:

3.0

Lecture:

1 x 3 Hours Weekly

Syllabus:

Definition of learning difficulties. Theoretical models. Recognition of early childhood, primary, secondary and adult learners with learning difficulties. Diagnostic assessment procedures, psychometric standards, selection, administration and interpretation. Design and implementation of intervention strategies and programs. Mainstreaming and classroom management strategies. Collaborative approaches, parental involvement, sources of further referral and support in the community.

Unit Outcomes:

On successful completion of this unit, students will have - A knowledge and understanding of what is meant by specific learning difficulties and can apply this knowledge to improving the education of pupils experiencing difficulties with learning at early childhood, primary and secondary levels. Identified and evaluated the contribution of psychological, educational and social factors to the development and maintenance of learning problems in the classroom. A knowledge, understanding and application of arange of diagnostic, planning and intervention strategies to assist the education of pupils with learning problems. A knowledge, understanding and application of collaborative principles in developing programs for pupils with learning difficulties. Recognised the classroom warning signs of learning problems, utilised appropriate tools to assess individual pupils more intensively and developed an effective plan of intervention to improve learning outcomes for individual pupils. Implemented and evaluated selected intervention strategies to improve the education of pupils with learning problems. Worked collaboratively and developed teamwork processes to improve the education of pupils with learning problems.

Text and references listed above are for your information only and current as of September 30, 2003. Please check with the unit coordinator for up-to-date information.

Unit References:

Bailey, J. and Rice, D. (1997), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Medical, Psychological and Educational Perspectives. Sydney, Australian Association of Special Education. Beitchman, J. (ed.) (1996), Language, Learning and Behaviour Disorders - Developmental, Biological and Clinical Perspectives. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press. Cramer, S.C. and Ellis, W. (eds.) (1996), Learning Disabilities - Lifelong Issues. Baltimore, PH Brookes. Deshler, D.D., Ellis, E.S. and Lenz, B.K. (1996), Teaching Adolescents with Learning Disabilities - Strategies and Methods. Denver, Love. EDWA. (1997), Resource Focus - Students Experiencing Difficulties with Learning. Perth, EDWA.

Unit Texts:

Prior, M. (1996), Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties. Hove, Psychology Press. Samson, J., Radloff, A. and de la Harpe, B. (1997), The Essay - A Guide to Writing Essays and Reports in Education (third edition). Perth, Paradigm Books.

Unit Assessment Breakdown:

Assignment 1 Case study of a pupil with learning problems 30%, Assignment 2 Resource File 30%, Assignment 3 Set of Study Questions (8 topics x 2 questions per topic) 40%. This is by grade/mark assessment.

Year	Location	Period	Internal	Area External	Central External
2004	Bentley Campus	Semester 1	Y	Y