Special Education Degree
(Mild-to-Moderate)

Quantitative Literacy views real-world problems through the lens of quantitative reasoning. The application of quantitative concepts to topics such as financial decisions is explored. Algebraic models and functions, as well as principles of geometry, are reviewed as fundamental ways to explore real-life scenarios. The use of mathematical concepts as a tool for modeling and understanding everyday problems is leveraged to promote students' thinking of math as a useful and relevant tool for many situations and scenarios. Numeracy and quantitative thinking skills are developed through these applications.

Technology and Ethics: Emerging Trends and Society explores the intersection of ethical thinking and technological innovations. A foundational introduction to ethical frameworks is applied to emerging trends in technology, including artificial intelligence, social media, and other forms of digital media. This course examines the impact of technology on our understanding of self, as well as the individual’s role in interacting with others in a globalized society. The course helps students gain the ability to recognize ethical actions within the context of current and newly evolving technological landscapes. This course has no prerequisites.

American Politics and the U.S. Constitution examines the evolution of representative government in the United States and the changing interpretations of the civil rights and civil liberties protected by the Constitution. This course will give candidates an understanding of the powers of the branches of the federal government, the continual tensions inherent in a federal system, the shifting relationship between state and federal governments, and the interactions between elected officials and the ever-changing electorate. This course will focus on such topics as the role of a free press in a democracy, the impact of changing demographics on American politics, and the debates over and expansion of civil rights. Upon completion of the course, candidates should be able to explain the basic functions of the federal government, describe the forces that shape American policy and politics, and be better prepared to participate in America’s civic institutions. This course has no prerequisite.

Statistical Data Literacy. utilizes concepts in statistics, research, data, and data representation to explore the interpretation of data and their application to decision-making. The course uses real-world scenarios to build upon foundational principles of data collection and description. The use of data to make and explain decisions is also explored. The course also builds on skills of descriptive statistics and graphical depictions of data to help students understand data and make data-based decisions. This course has no prerequisites.

Welcome to Composition: Writing with a Strategy! In this course, you will focus on three main topics: understanding purpose, context, and audience, writing strategies and techniques, and editing and revising. In addition, the first section, will offer review on core elements of the writing process, cross-cultural communication, as well as working with words and common standards and practices. Each section includes learning opportunities through readings, videos, audio, and other relevant resources. Assessment activities with feedback also provide opportunities to check your learning, practice, and show how well you understand course content. Because the course is self-paced, you may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as you need to gain proficiency in the seven competencies that will be covered in the final assessment. If you have no prior knowledge or experience, you can expect to spend 30-40 hours on the course content.

Welcome to Composition: Successful Self-Expression! In this course, you will focus on four main topics: professional writing for a cross-cultural audience, narrowing research topics and questions, researching for content to support a topic, and referencing research sources. Each section includes learning opportunities through readings, videos, audio, and other relevant resources. Assessment activities with feedback also provide opportunities to check your learning, practice, and show how well you understand course content. Because the course is self-paced, you may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as you need to gain proficiency in the seven competencies that will be covered in the final assessment. If you have no prior knowledge or experience, you can expect to spend 30-40 hours on the course content. You will demonstrate competency through a performance assessment. There is no prerequisite for this course and there is no specific technical knowledge needed.

Welcome to Introduction to Communication: Connecting with Others! It may seem like common knowledge that communication skills are important, and that communicating with others is inescapable in our everyday lives. While this may appear simplistic, the study of communication is actually complex, dynamic, and multifaceted. Strong communication skills are invaluable to strengthening a multitude of aspects of life. Specifically, this course will focus on communication in the professional setting, and present material from multiple vantage points, including communicating with others in a variety of contexts, across situations, and with diverse populations. Upon completion, you will have a deeper understanding of both your own and others’ communication behaviors, and a toolbox of effective behaviors to enhance your experience in the workplace.

Introduction to Systems Thinking and Applications provides learners with the skills required to engage in a holistic systems-based approach to analyzing complex problems and solutions. This course introduces the foundational concepts and principles of systems thinking and provides opportunities to use a systems thinking approach to analyze and evaluate real-world case studies. The course will culminate with using systems thinking to develop a solution to an authentic complex problem. This course has no prerequisites, but general education math (C955 or C957) is preferred. Because the course is self-paced, learners may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as needed, with the goal of demonstrating proficiency in the five competencies covered in the final assessment. If learners have no prior knowledge of this material, they can expect to spend 30 to 40 hours on the course content.

This course provides students with an overview of the basic principles and unifying ideas of the physical sciences: physics, chemistry, and earth sciences. Course materials focus on scientific reasoning and practical, everyday applications of physical science concepts to help students integrate conceptual knowledge with practical skills.

This course is a foundational introduction to the biological sciences. The overarching theories of life from biological research are explored as well as the fundamental concepts and principles of the study of living organisms and their interaction with the environment. Key concepts include how living organisms use and produce energy; how life grows, develops, and reproduces; how life responds to the environment to maintain internal stability; and how life evolves and adapts to the environment.

Elementary Literacy Methods is an engaging and comprehensive course designed for aspiring educators, focusing on the development of effective literacy teaching strategies for elementary-level students. This course reviews the fundamental principles of literacy education through science of reading, but takes a more specialized focus on vocabulary development, reading comprehension, and the deeply complex literacy skills developed in grades 4 to 6. Candidates explore a variety of instructional approaches and materials tailored to support all learners in the elementary classroom, including learners with dyslexia. This exposure will assist candidates in using Tier 1 multi-tiered systems of support and assessment (MTSS) for planning and implementing literacy lessons, selecting appropriate resources, and assessing student progress.

Elementary Literacy Curriculum is a comprehensive course that deepens an educator's knowledge of language acquisition and progressively complex concepts and skills surrounding literacy. This course explores critical elements of the science of reading and writing, including applying key theories and research used to support the development of literacy, evaluating diverse resources, and utilizing purposeful oral, written, and digital communication in elementary curriculum. Candidates delve into the foundational aspects of literacy, including phonological awareness, phonics, word analysis, fluency, and comprehension, while also gaining insights into how these elements shape and influence literacy development. This dynamic course empowers educators to create a solid foundation for students' literacy skills and a lifelong love of reading and writing within various learning environments.

Early Literacy Methods is a specialized course designed for educators and professionals passionate about nurturing literacy skills in young children. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the foundational concepts and practices essential for promoting literacy development in early childhood through the science of reading. Emphasizing the critical development in grades PK to third grade, the curriculum covers topics such as phonemic awareness, language acquisition, and emergent reading and writing skills. Candidates learn how to create stimulating and inclusive literacy environments, use developmentally appropriate materials, and engage with a variety of high-quality core instruction as part of Tier 1 multi-tiered systems of support and assessment (MTSS) suited to the various needs of young learners, including learners with dyslexia. Additionally, the course incorporates the latest research in early childhood literacy focusing on the science of reading and best practices for how children learn to read and write. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, this course aims to prepare candidates with the tools to effectively guide and inspire early literacy development in their classrooms.

Literacy Assessment and Interventions is an essential course for candidates to enhance their skills in identifying and addressing literacy challenges in all student populations, including students with dyslexia, through Tier1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 multi-tiered systems of support and assessment (MTSS). This course reviews the science of reading associated with a wide range of assessments and techniques used to evaluate reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Students learn to administer and interpret assessments, using the data to identify specific literacy needs and learning gaps. A significant focus of the course is on designing and implementing targeted intervention strategies to support student learning in areas, such as phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary development. By exploring and implementing actionable steps to monitor student progress, candidates gain expertise in improving literacy outcomes for all learners.

Elementary Mathematics Curriculum is a detailed and practical course designed for educators who seek to expand their knowledge of the mathematics curriculum in elementary classrooms. This course provides the essential mathematical concepts suitable for young learners, including numbers, operations, and algebraic thinking, spanning through the domains of geometry, measurement, data, statistics, and probability. Emphasis is placed on engaging with a curriculum that not only aligns with educational standards but also nurtures a love for mathematics. By the end of this course, candidates are provided with the tools and confidence to foster a strong mathematical foundation in their elementary students.

Early Mathematics Methods and Interventions is a comprehensive course designed for educators focused on advancing mathematics education in the early elementary grades. This course emphasizes innovative and research-based teaching methods for developing mathematical understanding in young children, particularly in the crucial developmental stages in PK through the early elementary grades Participants will explore a variety of instructional strategies to support conceptual understanding and procedural fluency in areas such as number sense, basic operations, and early problem-solving skills. A significant aspect of the course involves identifying and addressing learning needs through targeted interventions, personalized instruction, and the use of manipulatives and digital tools. The curriculum also highlights the importance of creating an engaging and inclusive learning environment that encourages exploration and curiosity in mathematics. By integrating assessment techniques and thoughtful learning experiences, this course aims to provide educators with the skills to effectively nurture early mathematical abilities and lay a strong foundation for future academic success in mathematics.

Foundations of Literacy through Literature is an enriching course designed for educators and literacy enthusiasts, focusing on the exploration and utilization of literature to foster growth in the skills and concepts necessary for reading. This course delves into the role of varied and age-appropriate literary works in the science of reading to develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities in learners. Students examine a broad range of genres to understand how different texts can be used to enhance vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking. This analysis allows the candidate to not only successfully integrate literature into meaningful instruction, but it is designed to cultivate a deep appreciation for reading itself. The curriculum emphasizes interactive and creative teaching strategies to engage learners effectively and integrate culture into their literacy instruction. The candidate is given real-world examples for how to create an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates different perspectives through quality text. By the end of the course, students are prepared with the knowledge and practical skills to use literature as a powerful tool in the development of comprehensive literacy skills.

Elementary Mathematics Methods and Interventions is an engaging course crafted for educators who are dedicated to strengthening and enriching the mathematics education of elementary students. This course focuses on practical, research-supported strategies for teaching essential mathematical concepts, including number operations, geometry, measurement, and data analysis. This course includes resources for all elementary grade levels with a significant focus on grades 3 to 6. Participants learn to identify and assess students' mathematical understanding, create differentiated learning experiences, and implement effective interventions for diverse learner needs. Emphasis is placed on constructing a classroom environment that promotes mathematical curiosity, problem-solving, meaningful discourse, and a growth mindset. Students acquire the skills to build authentic mathematics experiences that caters to the varied needs of all students, setting a firm foundation for their future academic success in mathematics.

Secondary Literacy Methods & Interventions utilizes MTSS to equip educators with evidence-based strategies to address adolescents' reading challenges through the Multi-Tiered System of Supports Model. Candidates learn to identify, monitor, and provide differentiated instruction, integrating screening tools and progress monitoring to enhance comprehension. The course emphasizes the development of personalized intervention plans while utilizing reading assessments for informed instructional decisions. By completion, candidates compile intervention strategies supporting learners across MTSS tiers, fostering inclusive environments for academic success.

Advanced Clinical provides aspiring educators with real-world classroom experience. This course emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning, offering candidates the unique opportunity to observe and participate in classroom environments under the guidance of experienced mentors. The curriculum includes demonstrating reflective practice, classroom engagement techniques, instructional strategies, and effective communication skills with students and colleagues through a pedagogical performance assessment. Through this immersive experience, candidates not only observe the daily responsibilities of a teacher, but also start to develop their own teaching style and philosophy, laying a solid foundation for their future careers in education. This course is taken immediately prior to Student Teaching I as part of an engaging and intensive clinical experience.

Early Clinical Experiences is a pivotal course designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills. This course offers aspiring educators an immersive experience in real classroom settings under the mentorship of experienced teachers. Candidates engage in a range of activities, including observation, to develop a deeper understanding of classroom dynamics, student engagement, and effective instructional strategies. Emphasizing reflective practice, the course encourages participants to analyze their experiences, integrate feedback, and adapt their teaching methods accordingly. This experiential learning approach equips future teachers with the confidence and competence necessary to foster a positive and impactful learning environment for their students.

Elementary Literacy and Mathematics Strategies and Assistive Technologies prepares special education teachers to use progress monitoring and evidence-based instructional practices appropriate for elementary students with exceptionalities. The course includes cognitive and metacognitive strategies that elementary students can use to acquire new content knowledge and generalize skills across learning environments. It also provides opportunities for learners to incorporate intensive instructional strategies and practice making accommodations that include assistive technologies to elementary math and English language arts lesson plans based on learner characteristics, performance data, and individualized education program (IEP) goals.

Student Teaching II is the final part of a two-part series and is a mandatory course for all candidates seeking initial licensure. The course offers a supervised classroom experience in a real-world setting, allowing candidates to demonstrate professional ethics and dispositions, collaborate with experienced teachers, and implement instructional strategies. Building on the responsibilities and skills developed in Student Teaching I, candidates receive ongoing feedback through observations and a final evaluation. This evaluation assesses activities' relevance and cultural engagement, the effectiveness of teaching each student, the ability to analyze and adjust teaching methods, and the willingness to explore new materials and methods. Successful completion of Student Teaching II is a crucial step in the licensure process, as it determines eligibility for licensure as a professional educator. Additionally, the course features synchronous learning sessions that delve into professional development topics such as professional growth opportunities, ethical decision making, and self-care. Candidates must attend the required synchronous learning sessions in addition to their classroom placement.

Special Education Curriculum is designed for candidates who plan to teach in a special education program at any grade level from kindergarten through grade 12. This course reviews the basic principles of special education and their application in realistic situations. Its focus is on five major content areas: Development and Characteristics of Learners, Planning and the Learning Environment, Instruction, Assessment, and Foundations and Professional Responsibilities which align to CEC Standards.

Considerations for Instructional Planning for Learners is designed to introduce special education teachers to a repertoire of evidence-based instructional strategies to advance the learning of students with exceptionalities. The course focuses specifically on strategies for intensifying and individualizing instructional interventions; making instructional decisions based on progress-monitoring data; collaborating with general education teachers and paraprofessionals; teaching to mastery; promoting generalization of learning; and teaching students with exceptionalities how to use self-assessment, problem solving, and other cognitive strategies to organize critical content and meet their needs.

Behavioral Intervention Strategies and Applied Behavior Analysis prepares special education teachers to work effectively with students exhibiting challenging behaviors, with a focus on students with behavioral and emotional exceptionalities. This course provides an overview of behavior disorders and their characteristics, as well as appropriate research-based intervention strategies, including positive behavior intervention and supports, multitiered systems of support (MTSS), applied behavior analysis, replacement behavior, and reinforcement strategies, culturally responsive practices, and data collection and assessment methods. After completing this course, learners emerge prepared to strategize and recommend adjustments to the learning environment that support positive behavior and student success in the classroom and beyond. This course also examines behavioral assessment and analysis, functional behavior assessment (FBA), and the creation and monitoring of behavioral improvement plans (BIP) that can be implemented in an authentic learning environment.

Special Education Law, Policies, and Procedures prepares special education teachers to practice within legal and ethical guidelines as they navigate the Special Education processes, stakeholder interactions, and other complex situations. This course provides an overview of the professional ethics and professional practice standards of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), which guides candidates to act in a professionally conscientious manner. Candidates will explore special education legal foundations and case laws to apply legal foundations and ethical practices in special education process compliance.

Assessment for Special Education prepares special education teachers to use multiple methods of assessment and data sources in making educational decisions concerning the student and their learning environment. This course is designed to help provide an understanding of how assessment data is used during screening in multitiered systems of support (MTSS), the eligibility process, the evaluation process, progress monitoring, and data-based instructional decision making.

Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Collaboration and Communication with Parents and School Staff prepares special education teachers to collaborate effectively with parents, school staff, and other professionals to plan programs and access services for students with exceptionalities. This includes applying culturally responsive communication strategies within school, educational settings, and the community. The course introduces ways to enhance parental involvement and family engagement while teaching families and students advocacy throughout the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and transition planning processes. The learner will create an IEP and then engage in a simulated IEP annual review where they will practice effective communication and collaboration skills key to the program's development and implementation. Candidates will engage in three hours of preclinical experiences that includes a simulated collaborative experience in which skills learned can be applied.

Secondary Literacy and Mathematics Strategies and Assistive Technologies prepares special education teachers to use progress monitoring and evidence-based instructional practices appropriate for use with secondary students with exceptionalities. This course focuses on intensive instruction and accommodation that includes assistive technology to secondary lesson plans. Learners will apply strategies to develop student critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Learners will assess and measure student progress towards the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and transition goals for post-secondary and career preparation.

Planning Instructional Strategies for Meaningful Learning is a dynamic course designed for educators seeking to deepen their understanding of instructional planning and the execution of educational strategies that foster meaningful learning experiences. This course provides candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to create engaging and standards-aligned lessons that meet the needs of all students. This course also covers a range of high-leverage instructional practices to increase student learning, engagement, and achievement. Participants will learn to utilize assessments to inform instruction, adapt teaching to accommodate all students, and incorporate technology to enhance learning.

Assessing and Monitoring Student Learning is a targeted course crafted for candidates who aim to enhance their skills in evaluating student progress and educational outcomes. This course provides an in-depth exploration of various assessment techniques, including formative and summative assessments, standardized tests, benchmark assessments, progress monitoring, and alternative assessment strategies. Participants will learn how to design effective assessment tools, interpret data to inform instruction, and provide meaningful feedback to students. This course also provides a foundation of data analysis that supports educators’ need to understand data and present data to stakeholders. Candidates will also explore online and digital assessment tools. Assessing and Monitoring Student Learning will prepare learners to align assessments to standards to monitor student learning, assess data, and provide on time and quality feedback.

Instructional Technology and Online Pedagogy is an innovative course designed to equip students with the skills to effectively integrate technology in their teaching practices. The course also covers best practices for online pedagogy, assessment and feedback, collaborative learning, and the use of multimedia and interactive elements to enhance learning experiences. With a focus on practical application, students will leave the course ready to create and facilitate compelling, high-quality online learning experiences that meet the needs of today's diverse learners. This course also provides a foundation for supporting digital literacy in K–12 education. In addition, this course prepares students to use technology to improve professional productivity and effectiveness in areas like data analysis and data representations.

The Professional Educator prepares WGU students to excel in the exciting and impactful profession of being an educator. Additionally, the course addresses the importance of continuous professional development and ethical considerations in teaching through the School of Education (SOE) Professional Dispositions and Ethics. Upon completion of the course, WGU students will be equipped with the tools and insights needed to continue their professional journey of becoming effective, inspiring, and adaptive educators, capable of making a significant impact in the lives of their students and the broader educational community. (This is not a transferable course.)

Learners and Learning Science provides WGU students with a deep understanding of the science behind learning processes. This course covers a broad spectrum of topics pertaining to the science of learning, including cognitive development, learning theories, neuroscience in education, and the impact of developmental milestones on learning. Students will explore how these concepts apply to learning environments and educational levels, from early childhood through adolescence. The course emphasizes evidence-based practices and the practical application of learning science principles, equipping students with strategies to enhance learning outcomes and student engagement. This course aims to empower educators to create more effective, inclusive, and engaging learning experiences for all learners.

Personalized Learning for Inclusive Classrooms empowers educators to create more inclusive and effective learning environments. This course focuses on the principles and strategies of personalized learning, emphasizing the need to value and support the unique needs, interests, and abilities of each learner. The course provides a foundation for learner characteristics of learners with exceptionalities and other unique learning needs. This course helps candidates develop skills for partnering with parents and families to advocate for all students with exceptionalities, including those impacted by provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Multitiered systems of support are addressed to prepare candidates for their future classrooms as they seek to select appropriate instructional practices and interventions to best serve their learners. These factors are also addressed in relation to online and hybrid learning environments.

Creating Positive Learning Environments delves into the key elements that contribute to creating and maintaining a positive learning atmosphere for educators focused on fostering supportive and productive classroom climates. The course teaches effective communication, classroom norms and routines, and positive behavior supports. Emphasizing the importance of a safe and inclusive environment, the course also explores methods to promote student engagement, collaboration, and mutual respect among all learners. It also addresses the role of mental well-being in learning, exploring trauma-informed and restorative practices, which are addressed in relation to online and hybrid learning environments. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications including case studies, Creating Positive Learning Environments teaches learners how to develop and sustain environments that not only enhance academic performance but also support the holistic development of students.

Student Teaching I is the first part of a two-part series and is a mandatory course for all candidates seeking initial licensure. This course provides a supervised classroom experience in a real-world setting, allowing candidates to demonstrate and reflect upon professional ethics and dispositions, collaborate with experienced teachers, and implement instructional strategies rooted in students' learning and developmental patterns. Building on the responsibilities and skills developed in Advanced Clinical, candidates will receive ongoing feedback through observations and evaluations. Feedback will encourage candidates to reflect on their commitment to professional practices as educators, analyze and adjust teaching methods, and explore new teaching materials and methods that are culturally relevant. Additionally, the course features synchronous learning sessions that delve into communication and collaboration, accepting feedback, creating positive learning environments, and technology and online learning. Candidates must attend the required synchronous learning sessions in addition to their classroom placement.