Special Education Terms, Definitions and Concepts

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts in special education, including definitions of key legislation, instructional adaptations, and classifications of disabilities.

Special Education

Specially designed instruction that meets the unusual needs of an exceptional student.

Individualized Education Programme (IEP)

A legal document that identifies learning goals for a child with disabilities and the supports/services needed to achieve these goals.

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)

An educational setting that provides the greatest exposure to the general education curriculum and interactions with non-disabled peers.

Normalization

A philosophy in special education advocating that individuals with disabilities should have opportunities as close to normal as possible.

Adaptations

Changes or adjustments made to instruction or materials that accommodate students’ special needs.

Modifications

Changes made to the curriculum or content to be learned to meet students’ individual needs.

Accommodations

Changes in the delivery of instruction or assessment methods that do not significantly change the content.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

A teaching approach that designs lessons to be accessible for all learners, removing possible obstacles.

Assessment

Tests conducted to evaluate a student’s educational progress and needs.

Evaluation

A broader term than assessment, involving a comprehensive examination of assessment information to make educational decisions.

Exceptionalities

Various categories of disabilities or conditions that require special education services.

At-risk

Individuals who have a higher than usual chance of developing a disability.

Cognitive Indicators

Problems related to learning, memory, attention, and hyperactivity affecting academic achievement.

Emotional and Behavioural Disorders

Disorders that are extreme, chronic, and unacceptable due to age or cultural expectations.

Speech and Language Disorders

Disorders impacting the effective use of speech and language for communication.