ED 540 - Consultation and Collaboration with Families, Schools, and Communities

This course focuses on effective education-based collaboration strategies for special educators who have multiple roles and serve numerous functions when designing and implementing developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences for students with a disability. As the special educator job is multifaceted, additional focus is on formulating a team-centered framework that provides academic support for various service delivery models. Particular emphasis will be placed on the role of the family of the students with disabilities, understanding their backgrounds, needs, and actively engaging them in the special education process. Additionally, candidates will learn how to effectively collaborate through verbal, written, and digital communication with collaborative transition team members who enable students to meet 21st century standards post-high school completion.

Overview of consultation methods utilized by special education professionals with general education teachers, related service personnel, parents and students including the educational, legal, and ethical factors involved in case management. Impact of disability on families; collaboration with families in IEP & ITP development; Consultation with Related Services (OT, PT, SLP, APE, AB Therapist, and, collaboration with other school based supports (guidance counselors, social workers, child protective services, psychologists, etc.)

Three credits.