Reading and Writing Difficulties

The academic content is divided into three parts. First, normal language development will be covered. This will also include children’s language development and an introduction to different reading methods. In the second part the emphasis will be on disabilities related to reading and writing. In the third part of the course the connection between theory and practice will be made. The student will meet practitioners who will tell about their work in school.

Knowledge
- The students have insight into different perspectives that describes the process of reading and writing disabilities
- Have knowledge of the components and measures to promote reading comprehension
- The students have understanding of how to identify difficulties with reading and writing and how education can prevent or reduce such difficulties

Skills
- The students have competence in both a proactive and reactive approach to reaading and writing disabilities
- The students have analytical skills in identifying literacy difficulties
- The students can identify factors that can trigger and/or mantain reading and writing difficulties
- The students are able to plan and implement special educational solutions aimed at reading and writing

Competences
- The students are familiar with academic terms central in the field of special education
- They have a reflective approach to their role as a special teacher in schools
- The students can participate in collaboration with parents and professionals
- The students can apply their professionalsm to make educated and informed choices
- The students can pass judgment and knowledge in a relevant way in different contexts

A total of 5 hours teaching each week. The teaching method may vary between lectures and seminars (the teaching may be concentrated).

In part one and two of the course there will only be lectures. Practical work for two of the courses PED3542-3544 are to last for a minimum of three weeks. The practice will preferably be connected to a school. In the third part of the course the seminar will focus on the students work with their assignment. In this part of the course the students will receive guidance. Writing the obligatory assignment should take place in smaller groups. The theme of the assignment will be given during the semester by the subject co-ordinator.

Compulsory activity: Participation in 80 % of the teaching program. Individual or group practical work of 1 1/2 weeks durability. Approved submission of report from practical work.
Form of assessment: Obligatory assignment (counting 40 % of the final grade) and a 6-hour individual written exam (counting 60 % of the final grade).