SPGN 251 Introduction to Inclusion and Disabilities Studies in a Diverse Society [GEUS]

An introductory survey course providing the historical, philosophical and organizational factors leading to the enactment of federal and state laws, rules, and regulations governing person with disabilities, including those in special education. Characteristics, educational and functional considerations, and implication of all areas of exceptionalities are addressed.

Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F) Course Rotation Fall and Winter

Prerequisites -
Restriction by Major -
Restriction by Class - Undergraduate standing

Rationale for Perspectives on a Diverse World - This course introduces students to issues of diversity in American society, workplace, schools, and community through an examination of the historical and contemporary lived experiences of persons with disabilities in the United States. As such, it fulfills the U.S. Diversity requirement of the General Education Curriculum. The course explores how persons with disabilities have been denied the guarantees of liberty and equal protection of the laws provided for in the U.S. Constitution and traces the disabilities rights movement as its participants challenged unjust laws and fought social intolerance, prejudice, and stereotypes in order to participate more fully in the social, political, and economic life of the nation. Given that almost one-fifth of people in the United States have a disability, students will likely interact with, or may become a member of, this important subgroup of American citizens. Through this course, students will acquire an understanding of the cultural complexity of disability in American society. The accumulation of readings, discussions, and activities will prepare students to apply concepts and practices of inclusion belonging, and institutional transformation in their future workplace and social experiences.

Equivalent Course(s) -
Course History -
Course Rotation updated 4/2019; Approved for GEUS 5/2013, effective Winter 2014; Change to title and description 2/2013, effective Summer 2013

Special Education, U.S. Diversity (GEUS), Professional Secondary Education Sequence

Winter 2025 Course Sections

Fall 2024 Course Sections