This course is about people – people with diverse needs, characteristics, and lifestyles – people who for one reason or another are considered “exceptional.” You will find that the study of human exceptionality is the study of being human.  In addition to providing you with current and informative content, the hope is that this experience with exceptionality will be interesting, enjoyable, productive, and will enhance your desire to learn more about human exceptionality.

In this course, the study of exceptionality is viewed from a multidisciplinary perspective, taking into consideration various disciplines and including information on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  It also includes an historical review of human services and current medical, social, and educational approaches to working with people who are exceptional. Ethnic diversity and related educational and social issues are considered. The impact of a child with a disability on the family unit, and coverage of the lifespan of the individual who is exceptional are also important topics in this course.  Finally, the study of exceptionality focuses on individual areas of exceptionality in order to gain better understanding of various disabilities.

Human Exceptionality, School, Community, and Family; Hardman, Drew, and Egan, Eighth Edition, 2006, Allyn & Bacon Publishers.  ISBN# 0-205-47034-3

• Students are expected to read each chapter, and complete the “Case Study” questions for one of the chapters in each Lesson ( a total of 6 reports).  The format for each case study report will be a brief (1-2 pages), clearly detailed, typed, proofread, paper summarizing the case and answering the questions which follow each case presentation.
• There will be five exams, each over several chapters.  Each test will be multiple-choice questions taken from the chapter material.  In addition to the main points, students should pay attention to the “Debate Forum” presented in each chapter and understand the arguments from both sides.  Vocabulary will also be important in understanding chapter concepts and selecting correct answers on the exams.