EDS 739 - Multi-Tiered Intervention for Students with Literacy Difficulties

3 Credit(s) This course explores the research, theory, and evidence-based practices in the literacy development of students with diverse social, cultural, linguistic, and literacy learning needs, reading difficulties, and/or disabilities. Participants will understand the role of universal screeners and more comprehensive diagnostic assessments in identifying individuals with literacy-related difficulties (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia, ASD, communication difficulties, etc.) and examine how these and other literacy difficulties and disabilities impact literacy development. Course content focuses on advancing participants’ skill in identifying strengths, challenges, and concurrent factors from early to more advanced language and literacy acquisition. Evidence-based assessments and instructional strategies will be used to design multi-tiered systems of support, use progress monitoring, and communicate essential information with the academic team, family, and related service providers. A total of 25 pre-practicum hours are required for participants seeking a Massachusetts Specialist Teacher of Reading license.