SPED4003 Theoretical approaches to special education
- Number of credits15
- Teaching semester2025 Autumn
- Language of instructionEnglish
- CampusLillehammer
- Required prerequisite knowledge
None
This course will provide students with theoretical and philosophical perspectives relevant to special education. It will provide students with knowledge that enables them to critically analyse existing theoretical positions in the field and introduce alternative theoretical perspectives that can contrast and contribute to more nuanced insight into the complexity of the field of special education. The course invites students to discuss the tension within and between special education research, politics, and various interests in the field of practice. The course will encourage students to engage in ethical reflections and discussion concerning the philosophical, theoretical, political, and practical dimensions of special education
Learning Outcome
Upon passing the course, students have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Students
- have a comprehensive understanding of the role and function theory has in the field of special education
- have a comprehensive knowledge of the relationship between different theoretical positions and their implications for special education in research, policy, and practice
- have knowledge of how sustainability, inclusion, and participation can be investigated theoretically within a special educational context
Students
- are able to critically evaluate existing knowledge in special education
- are able to independently analyse the relationship between different theoretical positions
- are able to reflect upon the role of theory as a foundation for comprehending the implications of inclusion, participation, and sustainability in special education
Students
- have comprehensive competence in how different philosophical and theoretical perspectives construct our understanding of special education.
- can demonstrate critical evaluation and analysis of theory
- can reflect upon their own values and develop awareness concerning ethical issues in special education theory and practice
- can position themselves within one or more theoretical perspectives and substantiate their choice using literature
| Form of assessment | Grading scale | Grouping | Duration of assessment | Support materials | Proportion | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Home exam | ECTS - A-F | Individual | 3 Day(s) |
|