Objectives:

1. To gain an in-depth understanding of severe or multiple disabilities and their impact on learning and development.
2. To develop knowledge and skills in creating individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with severe or multiple disabilities.
3. To learn effective strategies for working with students with severe or multiple disabilities, including those with physical, cognitive, and communication challenges.
4. To understand the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in special education, and develop skills in building positive relationships with families and other professionals.

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Severe or Multiple Disabilities

   • Definition and types of severe or multiple disabilities
   • Characteristics and impact on learning and development
   • Overview of the special education system

2. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

   • Overview of the IEP process
   • Developing measurable goals and objectives
   • Writing effective progress reports
   • Involving families and other professionals in the IEP process

3. Effective Strategies for Working with Students with Severe or Multiple Disabilities

   • Strategies for communicating and interacting with students with physical and cognitive challenges
   • Strategies for teaching functional and life skills
   • Adapting the curriculum and instruction
   • Using assistive technology and accommodations

4. Collaboration and Inclusivity in Special Education

   • Building positive relationships with families
   • Collaborating with other professionals, including related service providers
   • Creating an inclusive learning environment
   • Understanding the legal and ethical aspects of special education

5. Best Practices in Special Education for Severe or Multiple Disabilities

   • Reviewing and analyzing current research
   • Applying evidence-based practices to real-world situations
   • Reflecting on personal strengths and areas for growth

Assessment:

1. Midterm and Final Exams

   • Multiple-choice and short answer questions on course content

2. Classroom Observations and Practice

   • Practical demonstrations of teaching strategies and techniques
   • Reflections on personal experiences and insights

3. IEP Development Project

   • Working in small groups to develop an IEP for a simulated student with severe or multiple disabilities
   • Presenting and critiquing each other's work

4. Reflective Writing Assignments

   • Analyzing case studies
   • Writing personal reflections on the challenges and rewards of working with students with severe or multiple disabilities

Textbook:

• "Teaching Students with Severe and Multiple Disabilities" by Robert A. Dailey and Bonnie J. Hacker

Note: This course outline is just an example and can be modified based on the needs and goals of the program or institution offering the course.