Educational Diagnostician Special Education Master's

Introduces students to the principles and practice of applied behavior analysis (ABA) in school settings involving students with special needs. Focuses on the fusion of scientific or evidence-based practices with ethical principles in the design of a function-based behavior intervention plan (BIP) for a person with a disability who displays behavior problems.

Focuses on evidence-based practices for the assessment and identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The various components of a comprehensive evaluation are discussed. Various evaluation tools and procedures are reviewed and demonstrated.

Examinations of basic testing procedures and terminology as related to the exceptional learner. Analysis of statistics used in test development and interpretation of test data. Use of test data in developing individual education plans. Focuses on the development and use of knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective administration and interpretation of authentic assessment and documenting student achievement gains among diverse and exceptional learners.

Review of recent legislation governing the need and use for assistive technology for individuals with IEP or 504 plans. Issues concerning assessment, ownership, costs and availability are reviewed.

Descriptive and inferential statistical concepts and techniques commonly used in educational research. Organization of data, graphical representation, measures of central tendency and variability, normal distribution curve, sampling theory and tests of significant differences between related and independent samples.

Communication and collaboration models and strategies in working with parents, caregivers and professionals concerned about exceptional learners. Emphasis on the changing definition of families and changing demographics and the implications these changes have for effectively involving others in the decision-making for exceptional learners.