This course provides an overview of the inclusive classroom and an introduction to special education. Students gain an understanding of the challenges that students with exceptionalities encounter. The class explores topics including how disabilities are identified; the roles and responsibilities of the general education and special educators in the inclusive classroom; what steps are needed to refer students for evaluations in the special education process; characteristics of students with disabilities; general issues of evaluation approaches; and research-based accommodations and interventions, including the use of assistive technology devices and behavioral interventions. The course also explores classroom differentiation strategies for the gifted student. State and federal laws as well as an overview of local and national support agencies are also reviewed. Credits: 4