EDU 550 Exceptional Learning Needs and Gifted Education: Reading list

EDU 550 Exceptional Learning Needs and Gifted Education

Department: Master of Education

Module Description: This module aims to survey the field of learners with exceptional learning need including those with giftedness and talents. The module focuses on, but not restricted to, four main categories of such needs: Education of learners with social emotional and behavioural difficulties (SEBD), Education of learners with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Education of learners with any forms of Dyslexia, and Education of those who are gifted or talented. It looks at identification, programme planning, curriculum and pedagogy. This module on educating learners with exceptional learning needs is essential for students who wish to study the education of learners with special needs and disabilities as part of their MEd. The UAE is taking a leading role in the Gulf to develop the educational services offered to learners with special needs and disabilities in general and ELN in particular in the regular classroom. The module provides students with knowledge and transferable skills that are related to challenges facing decision makers to decide on important matters like provision of placement in the regular school, and production and evaluation of individualized educational programs in regular class settings in a country where academic excellence is very important. The module also introduces participants to current cultural, ethical and legal issues related to children with exceptional learning needs in their country. The module will particularly examine the different cultural attitudes to exceptional needs education which exists in the UAE, the Gulf and other developing countries.