This course is presented by the SKILD Center, which aims to see every child in Lebanon and the Middle East recognized for their potential as an integral part of society.
Course Overview
Every child deserves an equal chance to learn. As SKILD advocates for special needs inclusion in schools, higher education, the job market, and the community, we offer a course on essentials for accompanying children with moderate to severe special needs in a mainstream classroom. The "Guided and Skilled Course" aims to prepare individuals to accompany and support children with special needs in the school environment. Any mature individual with the passion, patience, and willingness to learn about the world of special needs can benefit from this course.
Course Mission
The certificate is a 25-hour course designed to provide candidates with a wider understanding of the world of special education. Participants will gain essential information needed to accompany students with educational and behavioral challenges in the classroom. Additionally, a digital platform will be created for all participants to facilitate communication between parents/schools and graduates, opening work opportunities for graduates and making it easier for parents and schools to find qualified teachers and aides for their children.
Course Modules and Learning Outcomes
Module One: Understanding the Basic Issues in Special Education
- Job requirements for an aide
- Ethics of the profession
- Child protection guidelines
- Types of placements for children with special needs
- Characteristics of exceptional learners
Module Two: Understanding Exceptional Learners
- Characteristics of students with various disabilities
- Highlighting strengths and addressing challenges
Module Three: Understanding the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and Implementing its Objectives
- Components of an IEP
- Creating engaging differentiated lessons
- Writing SMART objectives
- Using assistive devices
Module Four: Dealing with Challenging Behavior
- Understanding the acting-out cycle
- Preventive methods
- Functions of behavior
- Recording methods
- Strategies to avoid challenging behavior
Module Five: Working as a Team with Paraprofessionals
- Identifying team members and their roles
- Effective collaboration
- Tips for avoiding burnout
Method of Instruction
The course can be conducted online, on campus, or in a hybrid format, utilizing lectures, group discussions, individual readings, electronic presentations, and videos.
Course Evaluation and Completion
Certificates will be awarded upon successful completion of the 25 module hours. Evaluation will be based on participation (40%), assignments (10%), and a final assessment (50%).
Registration Fees
The full cost of the course is USD 350. The first round starting on Saturday, May 11 will be subsidized to cost USD 250.