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Tuesday, October 27, 2009 UNI 'Literacy Project' supports literacy and communication for special needs children CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- In order to create and support access to the Iowa Core Curriculum for children with significant developmental disabilities, researchers at the University of Northern Iowa are collaborating with personnel in the Iowa Department of Education on a project that supports special needs students in the areas of literacy and communication.
The project, "Literacy, Language, & Communication for Students with Significant Developmental Disabilities: Reaching Potentials through Systematic & Sustainable Statewide Professional Development," also known as the "Literacy Project," is a five-year effort that received an initial two-year $754,993 grant from the Iowa Department of Education this summer.
"A vast and expanding array of research and professional experience demonstrates that all students can benefit from access to the general education curriculum provided that professional educators have the knowledge and expertise required to implement and individualize effective, evidence-based supports, adaptations and services," according to Chris Kliewer, UNI professor of special education and one of the project coordinators and researchers.
Kliewer said two important goals of the project are, "promoting access to the Iowa Core Curriculum for children with significant developmental disabilities through increased literacy and communication skills and expanded opportunities for students with and without disabilities to learn and grow together rather than be segregated from one another."
With work already underway, project researchers are working to develop and carry out a professional development program that will educate and support teachers of students with significant cognitive disabilities, especially in the areas of literacy and communication. The project incorporates research efforts, seeking to understand the literacy development of children with cognitive disabilities.
Pilot programs are currently taking place through Area Education Agency (AEA) 267 in Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Waverly, Marshalltown and Northwest AEA in Sioux City.
"Upon completion of this project," Kliewer said, "it will serve as a model for effective literacy and communication instruction and mentor educators from across Iowa, and the nation, in the most effective practices related to literacy and communication for children with significant developmental disabilities."
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