3.00 Credits
The purpose of this course is to provide Counselors-in-Training with the conceptual framework for working with diverse learners and English language learners (ELL), Counselors-in-Training will acquire the knowledge and skills required to understand and perform the duties of the counselor when working with diverse learners as defined by the American Counseling Association, the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). PDE outlines the competencies required in Chapter 49 guidelines regarding the accommodations and adaptations for diverse learners that inform the work of the counselor. Specified duties of the counselor included in these guidelines are to: 1. promote a positive educational environment through counseling, consultation and collaboration, 2. collaborate and consult in the provision of accommodations and adaptations for diverse learners and ELL students in all areas of academic, personal, and career development, 3. utilize data to generate program development and direct the use of evidence-based intervention with all students, 4. understand the legal rights and responsibilities of the counselor related to diverse learners and ELLs, 5. assist in the screening, assessment, and identification process for students with special learning needs. In the course, we will give an overview of the components of the educational process to consider when attempting to meet the needs of diverse and English language learners. We will, initially, examine some of the characteristics of effective teaching. Once counselors gain an understanding of those characteristics, they can more effectively plan, not only their own interventions and/or guidance lessons within the classroom, but also assist members of the multidisciplinary team when planning to accommodate or adapt for diverse and English language learners. Best practice recommends the use of evidence-based practices to Increase effectiveness. Academic, as well as, emotional and behavioral components must be considered when planning to accommodate diverse learners and English language learners. Therefore, it is important that counselors consider, not only, how to intervene with individual students but also with the student body as a whole. If there is a foundation of building level or district-wide programs that address the emotional and behavioral development of students then individually based interventions are more likely to have a positive impact. Therefo