#  Developmental Disabilities 

 





 Semester:   Fall 

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 Year offered:  2012 

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 Link: [Course Website](http://isites.harvard.edu/k88132) 

 

 

 

What behavioral, cognitive, and neurological features characterize individuals with developmental disabilities? How are developmental disabilities defined, identified, portrayed, and experienced? In this course, we will integrate theoretical perspectives, cognitive neuroscience findings, and the clinical process to understand developmental disabilities. Personal narratives, portrayals in the media, and how the science of disabilities is incorporated into law and education policy will further inform our study of these topics.

The course will focus on developmental disabilities most commonly encountered in educational settings that compromise learning and communication. Specifically, we will explore disabilities impacting oral and written language, math, attention, executive function, and socio-emotional function. We will approach the topic of developmental difficulties by integrating multiple dimensions and diverse perspectives. By the end of the course, students will be able to:

- Define and characterize developmental disabilities behaviorally, cognitively, and neurologically
- Describe major theoretical frameworks for understanding developmental disabilities
- Understand a clinical approach to identifying developmental disabilities
- Appreciate the experiences of those who have developmental disabilities
- Evaluate portrayals in the media as a critical consumer
- Discuss the current legal provisions, and common challenges, for individuals with developmental disabilities regarding identification and services
- Understand the relevance of context in academic profiles of success and struggle