GED-639 Diagnosis & Correction of Reading & Writing Difficulties I-Diagnosis
This course will provide candidates who are completing their reading specialist certification with critical inquiry into the assessment process. Candidates will enhance their problem-solving skills as diagnosticians in the field of literacy instruction, viewing themselves as the most critical factor in a fair and equitable assessment process. This course includes a systematic study of the
selection, administration and interpretation of formal and informal techniques and instruments used to assess a variety of literacy components that have been identified as essential in research-based best practices. Students will learn to analyze and synthesize results and use that information to create individualized plans to enhance learning. The course focuses on assessment techniques that promote the learner from an asset perspective leading to increased success. In addition to learning about formal and informal assessments such as running records, informal
reading inventories, continuums and checklists, state-wide assessments, etc. a strong emphasis will be on understanding the importance of student interest and motivation. Throughout this course, candidates will work with students and create a clinical case study to demonstrate fair and equitable assessments as they learn the importance of incorporating multiple stakeholders (parents, administrators, etc.) within the assessment process.