Module #1 Introduction to Neuroscience and Special Education Overview of the course, importance of neuroscience in special education, and setting the stage for the intersection of both fields.
Module #2 Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology Basics Fundamentals of brain structure and function, including neurons, synapses, and brain regions relevant to learning and behavior.
Module #3 Neuroplasticity and Brain Development The dynamic nature of the brain, neural reorganization, and implications for learning and intervention.
Module #4 Understanding Neurodiversity and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Overview of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia, and the neural mechanisms underlying them.
Module #5 The Neuroscience of Learning and Memory The neural mechanisms of learning and memory, including encoding, consolidation, and retrieval, and implications for instructional design.
Module #6 Executive Function and Self-Regulation The neural basis of executive function, including planning, attention, and self-regulation, and strategies for improvement.
Module #7 Emotional Regulation and the Brain The neural mechanisms underlying emotional regulation, and strategies for teaching emotional intelligence and well-being.
Module #8 The Impact of Trauma on the Brain and Behavior The effects of trauma on brain development, structure, and function, and implications for supporting students with trauma histories.
Module #9 Assistive Technology and the Brain-Computer Interface The use of assistive technology to support students with disabilities, including brain-computer interfaces and neurofeedback training.
Module #10 Neuroscience-Informed Instructional Strategies Practical applications of neuroscience research to instructional design, including strategies for literacy, numeracy, and cognitive development.
Module #11 Differentiating Instruction for Diverse Learners Using neuroscience to inform differentiated instruction, including Universal Design for Learning and Response to Intervention.
Module #12 Social-Emotional Learning and the Brain The neural basis of social-emotional learning, including empathy, self-awareness, and relationships, and strategies for teaching SEL skills.
Module #13 Neuroscience and Reading Instruction The neural mechanisms of reading, including phonemic awareness, decoding, and comprehension, and evidence-based reading instruction.
Module #14 Mathematics and the Brain The neural basis of mathematical cognition, including number sense, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving, and strategies for teaching math concepts.
Module #15 The Neuroscience of Attention and Focus The neural mechanisms underlying attention, including attentional control, focus, and distractibility, and strategies for improving attentional abilities.
Module #16 Neuroscience and Language Development The neural basis of language development, including language acquisition, syntax, and pragmatics, and evidence-based language instruction.
Module #17 Sleep, Exercise, and Nutrition:The Triad of Brain Health The impact of sleep, exercise, and nutrition on brain function, development, and behavior, and practical strategies for promoting brain health.
Module #18 Neuroscience and Mental Health in Special Education The intersection of mental health and special education, including anxiety, depression, and stress management, and strategies for promoting mental well-being.
Module #19 Parent-Teacher Partnerships and Neuroscience Collaborative approaches to supporting students with disabilities, including parent-teacher partnerships and neuroscience-informed consultation.
Module #20 Neuroscience and Inclusive Education The role of neuroscience in promoting inclusive education, including strategies for creating inclusive classrooms and supporting diverse learners.
Module #21 Neuroscience and Cultural Responsiveness The importance of cultural responsiveness in special education, including the impact of cultural background on brain development and behavior.
Module #22 Neuroscience and Technology-Enhanced Learning The use of technology to support learning, including multimedia, gamification, and virtual reality, and the neural mechanisms underlying technology-enhanced learning.
Module #23 Neuroscience and the Early Years The application of neuroscience to early childhood education, including brain development, play-based learning, and early intervention.
Module #24 Neuroscience and Career Development The role of neuroscience in career development, including strategies for supporting students with disabilities in transition to post-secondary education and employment.
Module #25 Course Wrap-Up & Conclusion Planning next steps in Applying Neuroscience to Special Education career
