Special Education
Program Director:
Jennifer Booth, Ed.D.
The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare educators to address the unique needs of students with disabilities and diverse learning requirements. This specialized program equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to provide effective and inclusive educational support for individuals with exceptionalities across various age groups and settings. The Education Department at Salve Regina University has prepared educators for over 60 years. Consistent with the University's Mission of service, the Master of Education in Special Education enables educators to continue their professional learning and enhance their ability to serve students with disabilities.
- Develop a deep understanding of special education principles, theories, and practices.
- Foster a commitment to inclusive education and advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities.
- Enhance instructional strategies tailored to individual learning needs.
- Cultivate assessment and evaluation techniques for monitoring progress and improving edu
- Promote collaboration among educators, families, and community stakeholders
- Integrate assistive technology and innovative teaching methods in special education settings.
- Provide research-based interventions and behavioral support for students with exceptionalities
SED-508: Multicultural Perspectives in Special Education (3 Credits)
This course examines the intersection of culture and disability in special education. Participants will explore how cultural diversity impacts the identification, assessment, placement, and instruction of students with disabilities. Through the lens of multiculturalism, students will gain an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities for promoting equity and inclusivity in special education. This course will prepare educators to better serve culturally and linguistically diverse learners and their families.
SED-510: Ethics and Legal Foundations of Special Education (3 Credits)
This course explores the ethical and legal underpinnings of special education in the context of the United States. It provides graduate students with an in-depth understanding of the laws, regulations, and ethical considerations that guide the provision of special education services. Through case studies and discussions, students will examine the rights and responsibilities of stakeholders, ethical dilemmas in special education, and the impact of legal decisions on educational practices.
SED-514: Early Childhood Developmental Screening And Assessment in Special Education (3 Credits)
This graduate-level course is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in conducting developmental screening and assessments for young children in the context of special education. The course will focus on understanding the principles of early childhood development, utilizing appropriate screening tools, and interpreting assessment results to inform intervention planning. Through case studies, practical exercises, and discussions, students will learn to effectively identify and support children with developmental delays and disabilities. This course is required for all students in the M.Ed. Special Education program with a concentration in Early Childhood Education.
SED-516: Literacy for Diverse Learners: Intensive Instruction (3 Credits)
This course focuses on providing intensive literacy intervention strategies for diverse learners with a range of disabilities and learning challenges. Participants will explore evidence-based practices and instructional methods to support students in developing foundational literacy skills. Through a combination of theory, research, case studies, and practical applications, students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to design and implement effective literacy interventions for diverse populations in special education settings employing science of reading strategies and focusing on learning disabilities impacting language acquisition and reading. This course is required for students in the MEd Special Education program with a concentration in Elementary Education.
SED-518: Literacy for Adolescents: Intenstive Instruction (3 Credits)
This graduate-level special education course is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide intensive literacy interventions for diverse secondary students, including those with disabilities and unique learning needs. Panicipants will explore evidence-based practices and instructional strategies to address the complex literacy challenges faced by secondary students in inclusive and special education settings. Through a combination of theoretical foundations, research findings, case studies, and practical applications, students will develop the expertise needed to design and implement effective literacy interventions for diverse secondary populations. This course is required for all MEd Special Education students with a concentration in Secondary Education.
SED-520: Itinerant Model Coaching (3 Credits)
This graduate-level course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective coaching within the itinerant service delivery model in special education. The course will focus on understanding the unique challenges and opportunities of providing itinerant support to students with diverse learning needs. Through theoretical study, case analyses, and practical exercises, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of coaching strategies and techniques to support both students and educators in various educational settings. This course is required for all students in the MEd Special Education program with a concentration in Early Childhood Education.
SED-522: STEM for Diverse Learners (3 Credits)
This course aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively integrate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education for diverse learners in the context of special education. The course will focus on adapting STEM curricula, instructional strategies, and assistive technologies to meet the unique learning needs of students with disabilities. Through hands-on activities, case studies, and discussions, students will learn to create inclusive and engaging learning experiences in STEM for all learners. This course is required for students in the M.Ed. Special Education program with a concentration in Elementary Education.
SED-525: Career and Transition Planning in Special Education (3 Credits)
This graduate-level special education course is designed to provide educators with the knowledge and skills needed to support students with disabilities in their transition from school to post-school life. Participants will explore career development theories, assessment tools, transition planning processes, and legal requirements related to transition services. Through a combination of theory, research, case studies, and practical applications, students will gain the expertise necessary to facilitate successful transitions for individuals with disabilities, promoting their independence and participation in the community. This course is required for all MEd Special Education students with a concentration in Secondary Education.
SED-530: Research Methods in Special Education (3 Credits)
This course is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically evaluate, conduct, and apply research in the field of special education. Participants will explore research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations specific to special education research. The course will emphasize the development of research literacy and the ability to interpret and apply research findings to inform evidence-based practices and decision-making in the field.
SED-535: Inclusive Instruction in Special Education (3 Credits)
This graduate-level special education course focuses on inclusive teaching strategies and practices for exceptional learners. Participants will explore the principles of inclusive education, examine various exceptionalities, and develop the knowledge and skills required to design and implement effective, inclusive instructional strategies. This course aims to prepare educators to meet the diverse needs of exceptional learners in a range of educational settings by fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students.
SED-538: Intensive Instruction in Special Education (3 Credits)
This course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide intensive, individualized instruction for diverse learners in special education. The course will focus on understanding the unique learning needs of diverse learners, designing targeted intervention plans, and implementing evidence-based instructional strategies. Through case studies. practical exercises, and discussions, students will develop the expertise required to support the academic and behavioral growth of students with diverse abilities.
SED-540: Assessment and Data-Driven Decision Making (3 Credits)
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of assessment and evaluation practices in special education. Students will examine various assessment methods, tools, and strategies for diagnosing and evaluating the needs of individuals with disabilities. The course emphasizes the importance of individualized assessment to inform instructional planning and decision-making in special education settings.
SED-545: Understanding and Managing Behavior in Special Education (3 Credits)
This course delves into the theories, principles, and strategies for understanding and managing behavior in special education settings. It provides students with a comprehensive understanding of behavior analysis, assessment, and intervention techniques to support individuals with diverse needs. Through practical exercises, case studies, and discussions, students will learn to develop effective behavior management plans and create inclusive, positive learning environments.
SED-550: Partnering With Families in Special Education (3 Credits)
This course focuses on building effective partnerships between educators and families of students with disabilities. The course explores the importance of family involvement in the special education process, strategies for collaboration, and ways to support and empower families. Through case studies, practical exercises, and discussions, students will learn how to create positive, respectful, and culturally sensitive relationships with families to enhance the educational experiences of students with special needs.
SED-598: Graduate Special Education Internship (6 Credits)
This graduate-level course provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a special education setting. Under the guidance of a clinical educator and university supervisor, students will apply their knowledge of special education principles and practices to real-world situations. The internship aims to enhance students professional skills, deepen their understanding of diverse learners, and prepare them for a successful career in special education. This course requires students to complete the equivalent of 90 days of student teaching at the level of their program concentration. This course is only required for students seeking Rhode Island Department of Education certification in Special Education. This course will be waived for students who hold current RI certification in Special Education.