Grad Cert Special Educational Needs
About the Course
The first part of the programme is a blended learning module which was commissioned by the Welsh Assembly Government and is aimed at teachers who wish to improve their understanding and knowledge working with pupils who have Special Educational Needs (SEN). The module raises awareness of the factors involved in developing an inclusive learning environment for all pupils. You will learn about the four categories of SEN as described in the SEN Code of Practice for Wales (2002) and will be able to investigate professional responses to a diverse range of individual learning needs in the context of identification, assessment and planning; maximising curriculum access; differentiated teaching and learning; enlisting collaborative working practices; promoting positive social and emotional development and behaviour.
The second part of the course is designed to draw on your own knowledge, expertise and interest in the field of SEN. It will enable you to use your workplace as a learning environment to support your study.
How does it work?
The first 30 credits will be gained by studying the E-Gateway to SEN module, an innovative new bilingual course available online and delivered as a blended learning package. The second 30 credits is a dissertation module which enables students to draw on their own experience.
How will I study?
Online and through tutor contact.
How will I be assessed?
There are no examinations - assessments are through assignments and extended essays.
When does the course start?
It is anticipated that the programme will commence annually during the Autumn Term.
How long is the course?
Students would normally take one year to complete the Graduate Certificate.
What are the entry requirements?
By personal interview.
Programme Specification
Programme Aims
The main educational aims of the programme are:
- to support the continuing professional development of those working with children and young people by enhancing their knowledge and understanding of theory and research addressing a range of issues relating to SEN.
- to equip students to develop their professional responses to identification, assessment and intervention for SEN.
The programme will:
- provide a framework for the development of a comprehensive analysis of theories and research relating to Special Education;
- promote the development of research skills and ideas and identify opportunities to review and challenge inclusive processes relating to children and young people;
- support personal development through review, reflection and planning;
- inform reflective practice through reflection;
- enhance the understanding of how professionals participate in the learning experiences of children and young people.
Programme Outcomes
The Learning Outcomes of the modules in the Graduate Certificate programme will enable students to demonstrate:
Knowledge and understanding of the field
- a thorough knowledge and critical understanding of the underlying values and principles relevant to inclusion;
- a critical ability to identify relevant theoretical and research based primary and/or secondary sources;
- a critical understanding of interdisciplinary approaches to inclusion;
Application
- an ability to critically analyse concepts, theories and issues of policy in a systematic way;
- a well developed ability to identify and reflect analytically on potential connections between each of the aspects of subject knowledge and their application in policies and contexts;
- an critical ability to accommodate new principles and understandings, including suggesting the way forward and potential changes in practice;
Reflection
- an ability to critically reflect on their own value system;
- an critical ability to question concepts and theories encountered in their study;
- a thorough and in-depth understanding of the significance and limitations of theory and research;
Transferable Skills
- the ability to develop a strong line of argument both verbally and in writing;
- an ability to compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses in the arguments and opinions of others;
- an ability to use information and communication technology (ICT) including work processing, databases, internet communication, information retrieval and online searches;
- an ability to work with others, as a result of the development of interpersonal skills, to demonstrate the capacity to plan, to share goals, and work as a member of a team;
- the ability to improve their own learning and performance, including the development of critical study and research skills, information retrieval, and a capacity to place and manage learning, and to critically reflect on their own learning;
- a critical ability to analyse, synthesise, evaluate and identify problems and solutions.
How much are the fees?
Funding is available for the first part of the course through your LEA which has received funding from the Welsh Assembly Government via the Better Schools Fund to promote and support specialist teacher training. Students will be expected to make these arrangements themselves.
How do I apply?
Contact: The Registry 01267 676767 registry@trinity-cm.ac.uk
What could I do next?
Successful completion of this course could enable you to transfer up to 30 credits towards a programme leading to a Master’s degree.
