PED152 Language and communication difficulties

The course is connected to the following study programs

• Bachelor's Programme in Special Needs Education

Teaching language

Norwegian.

Recommended prerequisites

PED128 Learning and Learning Processes

PED151 Introduction to Special Education

Course contents

The course deals with learning difficulties in relation to language and communication from a developmental and socio-psychological, linguistic and special education perspective. It provides an introduction to theoretical models and empiri and how language and communicative skills are developed in the relationship between biological factors and environmental influences, focusing on factors that delay normal development. The course will highlight the connection between language/communication and various areas such as attention deficiency, behavioural difficulties and writing difficulties (dyslexia). Students will learn how to analyse the conditions causing challenges to arise in spoken and written communication and acquire knowledge of various approaches directed toward preventive and remedial special education procedures.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course the student should:

• demonstrate knowledge about important theories of language- and communication development

• be able to describe the main features of language construction and function, emphasizing phonology, morphology, syntax and sematics/pragmatics

• demonstrate knowledge of theories that explain speech and writing difficulties

• be able to account for different conditions blocking communication, including challenges facing children from minority background

• be able to describe the connection between specific language difficulties, dyslexia and secondary language difficulties

• be familiar with various charting methods and tools used for identifying language and communication problems

• have knowledge of different measures directed towards prevention and follow-up of communication difficulties and speech- and writing difficulties

• be able to make use of theories about language and communication in order to work with children/young people with language- and communication difficulties by use of alternative and augmentative communication

Teaching methods

Lectures, seminars, group work and individual work with advisement.

Evaluation

The study programme manager, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1. Information about evaluation method for the course will be posted on Canvas.

Assessment methods and criteria

6-hour written examination. Differentiated grades.