Curriculum
IMPACT CURRICULUM MATRIX
IMPACT candidates must be able to pass three state exams: (1) The TEXES Examination on Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities EC-12, (2) The TEXES Examination for Special Education EC-12, (3) Generalist EC-4, or for secondary students; either have 24 subject hours in the content area they are assigned (12 upper level) or have passed the content area test for the subject they are assigned.
State standards for pedagogy and professional responsibilities are infused into course work and practicum/mentorship activities. The following three-part matrix shows in which course the special education standards are specifically addressed.
IMPACT Course Descriptions
Understanding Learners with Special Needs
EDSP 5710: Special Education Programs and Practices. Presentation of special education roles, placement alternatives, legal implications, and current status and trends in special education. Analysis of categories of exceptionality, characteristics, and terminology. (3 hours)
EDSP 5510: Educational Appraisal of Exceptional Learners. Examinations of basic testing procedures and terminology as related to the exceptional learner. Analysis of statistics used in test development and interpretation of test data. Utilization of test data in developing individual education plans. Examination of curriculum-based assessment issues. Field experiences include administration of academic and teacher-made assessments. (3 hours)
Promoting Learner Growth and Achievement
EDSP 5330: Classroom and Behavioral Management Strategies for Exceptional Learners. Focus on a variety of classroom-based approaches to aid in the behavioral management of exceptional learners. Students learn how to implement individualized techniques including applied behavioral analysis, as well as larger-group strategies, to foster positive behavioral, social and emotional growth. Special attention is given to the development of behavioral intervention plans and positive behavioral supports for students with challenging behaviors. (3 hours)
EDSP 5740: Learning Strategies for Promoting Proficiency in Math and the Content Areas for Exceptional Learners. Educational strategies and interventions that promote academic performance of individuals with mild to moderate disabilities in content areas across a variety of settings and situations. (3 hours)
EDSP 5750: Learning Strategies for Promoting Proficiency in Reading and the Language Arts for Exceptional Learners. Educational strategies that promote academic performance of individuals with disabilities in English, language arts and reading. (6 hours)
Working in a Collaborative Community
EDSP 5430: * Advanced Practicum and Mentorship in Special Education. Demonstration in a special education setting of competencies during a minimum 1210 hours of supervised practicum experiences. Responsibility for development and implementation of individualized plans for the exceptional learner. Special education role identification and relationships are examined in structured seminars. (6 hours)
EDSP 5240: Collaboration with Parents, Paraeducators, and Professionals. Communication and collaboration models and strategies in working with parents, caregivers, and professionals concerned about exceptional learners. Emphasis on the changing definition of families and changing demographics and the implications these changes have for effectively involving others in the decision-making of exceptional learners. Analysis made of legal mandates and availability of resources to ensure quality services for exceptional learners. (3 hours)
* Note * EDSP 5430 courses must be taken during the fall and spring semesters while employed in a special education classroom.