Project ACCEPT

Modules

Overview

Module 1
Perspective on disability: Getting it straight on what it means to have a disability

This introductory module is designed to sensitize participants to how it feels to have a disability. Simulations and/or guest speakers are major teaching tools for this module. Participants should be forced to consider their own perceptions of persons with disabilities, to identify common stereotypes, and to consider techniques for improving instruction

Module 2
Supporting students with disabilities: How general and special educators can collaborate to guarantee student success

This module presents strategies for teaming to support students with disabilities. Teaching strategies include teaming exercises, self-assessment instruments for collaborative skills, and, later in the semester, co-planning and co-teaching a lesson. This content is covered early and then repeated in each of the subsequent strategies. One component of this module is emphasizing the shared responsibility of all team members for support for included students.

Module 3
Introduction to designing instruction: Methods and tools for the inclusive classroom

This module presents important methods and tools for planning and delivering instruction in an inclusive classroom. Specific methods and tools include a lesson plan outline, infusion matrices, and universal design worksheets, which will be compared and contrasted with traditional lesson planning methods and tools. This module focuses on the "non-technological" tools for inclusive education

Module 4
Introduction to Designing Instruction: Technologies for the inclusive classroom

This module presents an overview of types of assistive and instructional technologies for students with a variety of disabilities. Specific devices for promoting student communication, writing, reading, and environmental control will be demonstrated and students will practice with devices. Emphasis will be placed on when and how to use each type of technology.

Module 5
Universal instructional design and differentiated instruction for elementary schools

This double length module describes planning and delivering instruction in the inclusive elementary and middle school classroom. Emphasis is placed on integration of accommodations, modifications, and supplemental direct instruction with assistive technologies. Emphasis is placed in strategic use of whole-class and individualized strategies to promote success of all students in the inclusive classroom.

Module 6
Universal instructional design and differentiated instruction for middle schools

This double length module describes planning and delivering instruction in the inclusive elementary and middle school classroom. Emphasis is placed on integration of accommodations, modifications, and supplemental direct instruction with assistive technologies. Emphasis is placed in strategic use of whole-class and individualized strategies to promote success of all students in the inclusive classroom.

Module 7
Universal instructional design and differentiated instruction for high schools

This module describes planning and delivering instruction in the inclusive middle and high school classroom. Emphasis is placed in integration of accommodations, modifications, and supplemental direct instruction with assistive technologies. Emphasis is placed on strategic use of whole-class and individualized strategies to promote success of all students in the inclusive classroom

Module 8
Supporting positive classroom behavior: Understanding the behavior of students in inclusive classrooms

This module presents strategies for increasing the independence of students with disabilities in the general education classroom (e.g., self-management programs), maintaining a healthy and productive classroom environment (e.g., using positive reinforcement), and addressing interfering behaviors of students with disabilities (e.g., conducting a functional assessment). Emphasis is placed in preventing the development of problems.

Module 9
Assessing student performance in the general education classroom: Strategies for meaningful assessment

This module presents methods for assessing student learning, with emphasis on development of individualized, alternative assessments, and on grading adaptations. Specific attention will be paid to Illinois guidelines for including students with disabilities in large-scale assessments. This module may be combined with those for universal design when appropriate.

Module 10
Collaborating effectively with parents and families

This module is designed to sensitize teachers to common issues for all families, and particularly those with a child with a disability. Strategies for listening and communicating with families regarding instructional planning, IEP development, instructional design, use of assistive technology and problem solving will be demonstrated