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Courses

Language-Based Classroom: Elementary – Summer Institute 2024

Individuals with language-based learning disabilities (LBLD), in the context of average and above reasoning, generally have compromised academic and language skills that make learning in general education classrooms challenging. This 5-day course includes an overview of the characteristics of language-based learning disabilities and the best practices for language-based instruction that enable students to learn and perform more successfully in today’s elementary classrooms. Participants will investigate and discuss the efficacy of developing an elementary language-based classroom, language-based programming, and/or a language-based model that can meet the needs of diverse learners. Practical strategies, activities, and techniques for presenting skill-based/strategy-based instruction and content will be shared, discussed, and practiced as a group. A concise overview of current research in the field tied to specific learning disabilities, including dyslexia, and classroom practice that includes language-based instruction that any educator can implement will be provided.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Summarize key research findings in the area of language-based learning disabilities
• Summarize the dynamics of learning, including cognition, language, attention, memory, executive function, and metacognition
• Be more cognizant of the neuropsychological profile and neurodevelopmental variation of students diagnosed with language-based learning disabilities
• Identify the characteristics of language-based learning disabilities
• Define the terms “language-based instruction” and “language-based programming” in order to assess the efficacy of each in meeting the needs of diverse learners
• Define and assess the efficacy of a language-based elementary model that offers intensive, systematic, skill-based / strategy-based instruction in language and literacy as the core curriculum
• Define and assess the efficacy of a language-based elementary model that offers integration and continuity of skill-based / strategy-based instruction across the general ed curriculum
• List effective teaching principles, strategies, and recommendations for language-based instruction and academic planning
• Understand the implications of language-based learning disabilities for the student, parents, and educators
• Advocate with peers for the implementation of best practices recommended by research for educating students with language-based learning disabilities

LEVEL

This course is appropriate for educators at the elementary level. 

MATERIALS

Materials will be provided on-site.

GRADUATE CREDIT

Graduate credit is offered through Fitchburg State University and is included in the course fee. Once you register for graduate credit through Fitchburg, the grad credit portion of the course fee ($295) is non-refundable. Details about the graduate credit including timelines to register and refund policies will be embedded in the “Course Welcome” module of the course.

ADDITIONAL COURSE LOGISTICS

• Delivery mode: In-person.
• Attendance: Live, on the date and time listed in the course information section.