Music for Children With Special Needs

Participants will become familiar with general educational issues and music education trends affecting students with special needs in the United States.

Questions about music education teaching and learning will be covered, and participants will be introduced to variations in language ability, assessment, inclusion, and music education in a diverse world. The class will develop a sense of community through class discussions, completion of case studies, and presentations of teaching that includes adaptations, accommodations, and modifications. Additionally, participants will become knowledgeable in the areas of language, motor, visual, and social development, connecting current research and theory about students with special needs in music education to classroom practice. To synthesize thinking and learning experiences, participants will also critically assess inclusive school settings.

Learning Objectives

Develop personal, educational, and socio-political understandings of disability
Demonstrate awareness of the political, social, and historical contexts of special education
Be prepared to work within an inclusive and collaborative educational structure
Develop a keen awareness of, and strong commitment to teaching the full range of learners with disabilities
Anticipate high-priority needs, as well as effectively teach and make routine accommodations for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans

Course Materials - Required

These course materials are required, and may be purchased through the University of Arkansas Bookstore or other outlets.

A computer with a webcam
Teaching Music to Students with Special Needs: A Label-Free Approach
Author: Hammel and Hourigan
ISBN: 978-0195395419
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Copyright: 2011