Exceptional Learners - Educating Exceptional Individuals - EDUC 525 Resource Guide

Who Are Exceptional Learners?

The Council for Exceptional Children lists the following terms and definitions taken from the individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

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Exceptional Students
The term “exceptional” has often been used to describe unusual, unique, or outstanding qualities of people or objects. Consider the following phrases: “His artwork is exceptional” and “She is exceptionally bright.” In this case, the term “exceptional” refers to students who learn and develop differently from most others or students who have exceptional learning styles, exceptional talents, or exceptional behaviors. Exceptional students are those who fall outside of the normal range of development.
Special Education
Special education is a service provided to students with educational disabilities. This article provides a general overview of the history, current practices, and contemporary issues regarding special education. It focuses on special education practices in the United States, although other developed nations implement comparable practices and share similar concerns. It also provides a brief review of international issues in special education.