Special Educational Needs

You will complete two compulsory core modules and choose from a range of optional modules, allowing you to focus on topics that interest you or are particularly relevant to your career. You will produce a substantial piece of original research in the form of a dissertation. In preparation for this you will work with a supervisor to devise a suitable topic and be given training in research design, methodology and ethics.

You will be required to study and pass all your compulsory modules. You will also be required to study 60 credits of optional modules and pass at least 30 credits of these.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Dissertation 60 credits
• Special Educational Needs: Inclusive Approaches 30 credits
• Special Educational Needs: Inclusive Curriculum 30 credits

Optional modules

You will choose two modules from a list which may include:

• Developing Teaching and Learning Through Evidence-based Practice 30 credits
• Directed Study in Education 1 30 credits
• The Context of Deaf Education 30 credits
• Deafness and Development 30 credits
• Design and Evaluation of Digital Learning Environments 30 credits
• Developmental Disorders I: Dyslexia and Developmental Coordination Disorder 30 credits
• Developmental Disorders II: Attention Deficit Disorder and Autistic Spectrum Disorder 30 credits
• Children's family and personal relationships 30 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Special Educational Needs MA Full Time in the course catalogue

For more information on typical modules, read Special Educational Needs MA Part Time in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

We use a range of learning and teaching methods. Most modules are taught with a combination of seminars and tutorials. A significant amount of independent study is expected at this level; this allows you to build your academic skills, prepare for and reflect on the face-to-face teaching and pursue your own interests through the dissertation. The compulsory module seminars take place in the early evening, and tutorial slots are typically late afternoon. The modes of delivery and timetables for the optional modules vary so please check the module catalogue for more details.

Assessment

We use a variety of formative and summative assessment methods, these include; essays, research reports, case studies, reflective logs, critical reviews, presentations and posters. We do not use any examinations. We encourage students to submit draft material and plans for feedback. We provide assessment support online via email or in a virtual classroom on the VLE, via telephone/skype meetings and at face-to-face tutorials.