EDM124-SENCO 3: Learners with Difficulties and Disabilities

Module Provider: Institute of Education
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Summer term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Anna Tsakalaki
Email: a.tsakalaki@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
SENCO 3: Learners with Difficulties and Disabilities is one of three modules specifically designed to meet the NCTL standards for the National Award for Special Educational Needs Coordination (SENCO Qualification). This module will explore some of the common types of disability that SENCOs would see in an educational setting (e.g. dyslexia, autistic spectrum disorder, communication disorders, etc.). It is a blended learning module where part of the module is delivered through lectures, and part is delivered via the virtual learning environment (Blackboard).

Aims:

• To increase the understanding of the main individual type of disability and explore teaching strategies for learners
• To familiarise students with basic child development and causes of under achievement
• To explore behaviour management techniques
• To look at the role that mental health plays in academic achievement

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module participants will:

• Enrich knowledge of the common barriers to learning
• Critically reflect on how their school identifies and meets the needs of particular children
• Analyse and appropriately apply the tools used in the assessment of children/adults with additional needs
• Be able to identify and access specialist support for an individual student
• Consider the role of technology in removing barriers
• Discuss best practice in relation to transition and planning for the future

Additional outcomes:

• Students will have developed increased skills in the areas of written communication and e-learning
• Students will have the opportunity to develop networks of colleagues within their local area and wider Berkshire context

Outline content:
This module will explore some of the common types of disability that SENCOs would see in an educational setting (e.g. dyslexia, autistic spectrum disorder). One of the sessions of this module is available for SENCOs to arrange to meet their mentor or other experienced SENCO. This is flexible to support the individual learning needs of each person on the module.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

• Lectures
• Group discussions and short tasks
• Independent study via the VLE
• Blended learning tasks online

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures			12
External visits			6
Guided independent study:			182
Total hours by term			200
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:
n/a

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
There is a written assignment which focuses on transition. It is 4,000-5,000 words and the specific topic and title is to be negotiated with the module convenor. It is designed to explore the way in which a school can meet the needs of an individual student by getting the views of some of the stakeholders.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to students on taught programmes except those on Postgraduate Flexible programmes. Penalties for late submission, and the associated procedures, which apply to Postgraduate Flexible programmes are specified in the policy 'Penalties for late submission for Postgraduate Flexible programmes', which can be found here: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmissionpgflexible.pdf
The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
Students must achieve 50%

Reassessment arrangements:
Resubmission within one calendar month of the notification of failure

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: There is no required reading for this module.

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: Students are required to make one visit a SENCO in another setting. Costs are variable, depending on distance from one school to another and any subsistence required.

Last updated: 30 March 2023