Course Overview:
At BOOM Trust, we believe in the power of education to transform lives. This course provides an introduction to Special Needs Education, with a focus on empowering caregivers, educators, and advocates who support individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs) and disabilities. Drawing from both global perspectives and local African contexts, the course explores historical perspectives, intervention strategies, and the importance of inclusive educational practices.
Goals and Purpose:
The course is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and skills to better understand, advocate for, and support individuals with special needs in schools and communities. We emphasize the dignity of all individuals, celebrating them as valuable members of society. Our curriculum integrates faith-based principles, aiming to promote love, respect, and inclusivity for all learners.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the foundations and principles of special needs education.
- Recognize various disabilities and developmental challenges and understand how to identify them.
- Explore practical intervention strategies that can be adapted to Kenyan and African settings.
- Engage in discussions on current policies, trends, and challenges in inclusive education.
- Develop personalized, inclusive education plans that can be implemented in both mainstream and special schools.
Course Content
- Historical Foundations of Special Needs Education
This module traces the origins and evolution of special needs education across the world. Participants will explore significant milestones in the development of inclusive education, starting from early 20th-century reforms in Western countries to contemporary global policies. A particular focus will be placed on Africa, examining the influence of colonial and post-colonial policies on the education of children with disabilities. This segment will also highlight key advocacy movements and global conventions, such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), and their impact on current educational practices in Kenya and other African nations.
Topics include:
- Early pioneers and movements in special needs education.
- The impact of the UNCRPD on global education systems.
- Evolution of policies supporting inclusive education in Kenya and Africa.
- Identifying Special Educational Needs
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by children with disabilities is a critical step in offering effective support. In this module, participants will gain a deeper understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and other disabilities. Through a series of practical exercises and case studies, learners will develop the skills to identify various disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, delayed developmental milestones, and sensory processing disorders. The session will also discuss early signs, common symptoms, and how to work with healthcare professionals to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Topics include:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders and their symptoms.
- Recognizing signs of autism, cerebral palsy, and sensory disorders.
- The importance of early identification and intervention.
- Intervention Strategies
This module introduces participants to various intervention strategies that address the learning and developmental needs of children with disabilities. Learners will be exposed to behavioral, educational, and therapeutic approaches that can be customized to meet the individual needs of children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The emphasis will be on practical techniques that can be applied within Kenyan school systems and home environments. Additionally, participants will explore the role of multidisciplinary teams, including therapists, teachers, and caregivers, in providing comprehensive support.
Topics include:
- Behavioral interventions: techniques to address challenging behaviors.
- Educational adaptations: strategies for making learning accessible.
- Therapeutic interventions: speech, occupational, and physical therapies.
- Collaboration between educators, therapists, and families.
- Comparing Education Systems
In this module, participants will undertake a comparative analysis of special needs education systems in developed and developing countries. The goal is to understand the structural and resource differences that affect the quality and inclusivity of education in different contexts. A particular focus will be on Kenya’s system, where participants will examine the current strengths, challenges, and opportunities for improving inclusive education. The discussion will be informed by real-world case studies, showcasing both success stories and areas needing reform.
Topics include:
- Comparing special education policies in developed vs. developing countries.
- The role of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in advancing inclusive education.
- Challenges of implementing inclusive education in Kenya.
- Creating Inclusive Educational Environments
BOOM Trust firmly believes in creating environments where all children, regardless of their abilities, can thrive. This module focuses on developing safe, supportive, and accessible learning environments that cater to children with disabilities. Participants will learn how to modify classrooms, curricula, and teaching methods to foster inclusivity. They will also explore how to promote a culture of acceptance and diversity within schools and communities, encouraging both students and teachers to value and respect all learners.
Topics include:
- Designing accessible classrooms and learning spaces.
- Modifying curricula to suit the needs of children with special needs.
- Encouraging peer support and understanding in the school environment.
- Implementing BOOM Trust’s inclusive values into everyday school practices.