Course Overview

The Supporting Individuals with Learning Disabilities course is designed to provide educators with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively support students with learning disabilities. This comprehensive course covers assessment techniques, individualized support strategies, and best practices for creating an inclusive classroom environment. Participants will learn how to identify learning disabilities, implement effective interventions, and monitor student progress, ensuring each student receives the support they need to succeed academically and personally.

Target Audience:

• Special Education Teachers: Professionals responsible for supporting students with learning disabilities.
• General Education Teachers: Teachers in inclusive classrooms who need to understand how to support students with learning disabilities.
• School Administrators: Principals, assistant principals, and other administrative staff who oversee special education programs.
• School Counselors: Counselors who support the educational and emotional needs of students with learning disabilities.
• Paraprofessionals: Classroom aides and assistants who support students with learning disabilities.
• Future Educators: Education students and interns preparing for a career in teaching, particularly those focusing on special education.
• Parents and Guardians: Those interested in understanding learning disabilities to better advocate for their children’s educational needs.

Prerequisites:

• Basic Understanding of Special Education: Foundational knowledge of special education concepts and terminology.
• Teaching Experience: Experience working in a classroom setting.
• Familiarity with Educational Assessments: Understanding of various educational assessments and their purposes.
• Knowledge of Legal Requirements: Awareness of the legal and regulatory framework governing special education.
• Collaborative Skills: Experience working collaboratively with other educators, parents, and support staff.
• Commitment to Professional Development: Willingness to engage in continuous learning and professional growth.

What's Included:

• 2-hour workshop mode training
• Experienced Consultant delivering the class
• Discussion on concepts & best practices to apply
• Q&A sessions and next steps

Module 1: Understanding Learning Disabilities

• Overview of Learning Disabilities
  • Definition and types
  • Common misconceptions
• Impact on Learning
  • Academic performance
  • Social and emotional development
• Roles and Responsibilities
  • Educators, parents, and specialists

Module 2: Assessment and Diagnosis

• Evaluation Process
  • Formal and informal assessments
  • Role of psychologists and specialists
• Interpreting Results
  • Understanding assessment reports
  • Communicating with stakeholders

Module 3: Developing Individualized Support Plans

• Setting SMART Goals
  • Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound
  • Tailoring goals to individual needs
• Creating Actionable Objectives
  • Data-driven insights
  • Aligning with curriculum standards

Module 4: Implementing Differentiation Strategies

• Differentiation Techniques
  • Accommodating diverse learning styles and abilities
• Practical Tools and Resources
  • Modifying instruction and assessments
  • Adapting classroom environments
• Hands-on Activities
  • Case studies and real-world applications

Module 5: Monitoring Progress and Making Adjustments

• Using Assessments
  • Formative and summative assessments

Tracking student progress

• Data Collection and Analysis
  • Informing instructional decisions
• IEP Reviews
  • Regular reviews and adjustments
  • Continuous improvement strategies

Module 6: Fostering Inclusive Classroom Environments

• Creating an Inclusive Culture
  • Best practices for inclusivity
• Addressing Challenges
  • Overcoming barriers to inclusion
• Supportive Classroom Strategies
  • Enhancing classroom dynamics and student engagement