This programme is designed to help teachers work more effectively with students of special needs and be sensitive to students' inclusivity, diversity, and heterogeneity.

Introduction to Education : Educational Philosophy, History & Policies

Course Outcome

1. Demonstrate an understanding of various theoretical perspectives and policies, and how these compare, relate and are reflected in current contemporary educational contexts in terms of teaching and learning.
2. Demonstrate the ability to inquire collaboratively on educational issues.
3. Discuss the ethical implications of education theory and its relation to practice.
4. Apply theoretical and practical understanding of the early stages of the construction of a personal philosophy of education and of their role as future educators.
5. Analyse the application of educational theories, ideas, policies and influences to our education system today.

Communication and Thinking Skills

Course Objective
Communication and thinking skills are essential soft skills required for success in any chosen career. For Teacher Trainees, these skills are even more crucial as they are in the frontline of molding and influencing future generations. Teachers are role models in exemplifying these skills as well as inculcating them into their students.

Course Outcomes

• State the principles and nature of effective interpersonal communication.
• Describe the various strategies in resolving and managing interpersonal conflicts.
• Discuss problems and issues presented in the classroom using creative and critical thinking strategies.
• Evaluate critically samples of reading, listening and viewing materials provided.
• Demonstrate the ability to write and present effectively based on given topic.

Pedagogy & Diversity

Course Objective
This course aims to develop educators to embrace children, young people and adults who are being forced to change due to influences such as globalization, the increased social and cultural diversity, and change in patterns of wealth and explosion of knowledge demands from educational contexts.

Course Outcomes

• Define and discuss the diverse backgrounds of students and the implications for teaching and learning in all contexts.
• Demonstrate the ability to develop, modify and implement an inclusive curriculum to meet the specific needs of the individual learners and of groups of learners.
• Critically reflect on issues that relate to diversity and inclusive education through research online and databases.

Technology in Education

Course Objective
This course aims to equip students with the basic knowledge and skills to integrate effectively various technology and media into the teaching and learning process. An overview of the various theories of educational technology, media commonly used and the selection of suitable media in the classroom is discussed, together with their advantages and limitations. Students will be given hands-on experience in producing visual, audio, video and computer-aided instructional materials as well as to demonstrate how they can be integrated into the teaching and learning process. Current and future trends in using instructional technology and media for learning are also discussed.

Course Outcomes

• Describe the types of technology and media used in teaching and learning.
• Demonstrate the basic skills in producing visual, audio, video and computer-aided instructional materials in the classroom.
• Identify appropriate electronic and non-electronic materials for effective teaching and learning in the classroom.
• Demonstrate competency in integrating visual, audio, video and computer technology into the teaching-learning process.
• Explain the role of distance education and online learning in education today.
• Discuss the current and future trends in the use of technology and media in teaching and learning.

Introduction to Children with Special Needs (coming soon)

Instructional Strategies for Children with Special Needs

Course Objective
Children with special needs require specialized instructional strategies for effective learning to take place. Therefore teachers involved in teaching them should be equipped with the knowledge and skills to be able to carry out appropriate instructional strategies to meet each child’s individual needs.

Course Outcomes

• Concept of Differentiated Instruction
• The Planning Process of Instruction
• Grouping for Effective Instruction
• Direct Instruction for Learners with Special Needs
• Cognitive Training for Learners with Special Needs
• Facilitating Reading
• Facilitating Writing
• Facilitating Mathematical Skills
• Teaching in the content areas
• Technology Integration in the classroom
• Trends in the classroom

Inclusion for Students with Special Needs

Course Objective
Inclusive education of children with disabilities is accepted internationally as a standard and right for all children. Malaysia subscribes to this principle albeit its challenges on the ground towards meaningful inclusion. This course shall address the setting and challenges of special, integrated and inclusive education in the education system.

Course Outcomes

• Concept of Inclusion
• Guidelines for Responsible Inclusion
• Universal Design Learning
• Collaborative Consultation
• Cooperative Teaching and other Team Arrangements
• Curricula Modification
• Differentiated Instruction in the Inclusive Classroom
• Providing Support in the Inclusive Classroom
• Continuing Issues in Inclusion