Special Needs Education

Course description/educational objectives and outcomes

The primary goal of Special Needs Education is to acquire professional knowledge, skills and social competences necessary to perform the socio-professional role of a special education teacher with substantive and practical preparation. The course of Special Needs Education  is intended for individuals who are particularly interested in acquiring interdisciplinary, specialised knowledge and skills related to the education, rehabilitation, and therapy of people with disabilities and people with diverse educational needs.

 The curriculum includes educational programmes  in 3 modules to choose from:

• education and rehabilitation of people with intellectual disabilities,
• education and therapy for people with autism spectrum disorders,
• rehabilitation pedagogy.

The students choose a particular module in 2^nd year 2 (4^th semester).

Detailed educational objectives:

1. The acquisition of the principles and theories of special education. Students learn about the main theories, models, and approaches related to educating individuals with various disabilities and special educational needs.
2. The development of diagnostic and assessment skills.Students are prepared to fulfill the role of a special education teacher, professionally assessing educational needs, and conducting comprehensive assessments that form the basis for developing individualised educational programmes.
3. The design and implementation of individualised educational programmes. Students acquire skills in developing personalised educational programmes that take into account students’ individual needs, abilities, and developmental goals.
4. Improving skills in supporting personal and social development. Students gain experience in providing support for the social, emotional, and communicative development of individuals with special needs.
5. Integrating individuals with special needs into school and community. Students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively support the integration of students with special needs into educational institutions and society.
6. Deepening understanding of various forms of disability and special educational needs.
7. Mastering skills employed in working with students’ families and communities. Students are prepared to effectively collaborate with families of students with special needs, as well as with other institutions and professionals working to educate and support individuals with special needs.
8. Promoting equal access to education. Students are prepared to promote equal access to high-quality education for all students, regardless of their disabilities or special educational needs.
9. Introduction to the theory and practice of rehabilitation.Students gain knowledge of the main theories and models of rehabilitation and develop skills and apply them practically while working with individuals experiencing difficulties with social integration.
10. Developing and implementing rehabilitation programmes including analysis of individual needs and various rehabilitation methods and techniques, such as occupational therapy, teamwork, and social training programs.
11. Continuous professional and personal development. Special Needs education promotes an attitude of continuous professional and personal development, encouraging students to deepen their knowledge, refine their skills, and reflect on their own teaching practice.