Exploring Exceptionalities

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Describe etiological factors and characteristics of individuals with exceptionalities, including prevalence and incidence.
   
   • Examines etiology, characteristics, incidence and prevalence of various types of exceptionalities
   • Uses various disability models as a paradigm for examining physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities and mental health issues
   • Explores the role of classification systems and disabilities across disciplines
2. Define intellectual disability using DSM IV and other methods.
   
   • Examines the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV) and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD)and their roles in diagnosis and assessment
   • Investigates terminology used in diagnosis and assessment
   • Examines application of information acquired through diagnosis and assessment to own practice
3. Explore the various identification and assessment procedures including diagnosis.
   
   • Explores diagnostic and assessment procedures for various exceptionalities
   • Identifies the role of professionals, paraprofessionals and family members in the diagnostic and assessment process
4. Critically examine the issues and trends in the definition and identification of individuals with exceptionalities.
   
   • Examines the roles of diagnosis and labels as they relate to practice, acquisition of services and prgram planning
   • Investigates current literature regarding research, methodology, supports and services
   • Identifies the valule of examing issues and trends in the field of disabilities as a means of developing a life long learning and service improvement approach in one's practice
   • Explores, approaches, supports and services for individuals with disabilities and their families from a global perspective with a focus on the influence of culture and traditions.