The Educational Paraprofessional emphasis is a concentration within the ASIS degree
(Associates of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies) at Kaplan University. It is designed to
provide students with the critical knowledge and skills needed to be an effective
paraprofessional in the classroom, child care center or any other setting where
instructional aides may be of assistance.
With the recent adoption of the "No Child Left Behind Act" of 2001, as well as other
current trends in education, the demand for highly qualified educators is increasing.
Well-trained aides are needed to work at the preschool, elementary and high school
levels. This also includes an increased need for teaching assistants in specialized areas
such as bilingual and ESL education and special education. The Educational
Paraprofessional emphasis area will prepare students for the more rigorous qualifications
that are now required for these positions.
The Associate of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with Educational Paraprofessional
Emphasis is designed to prepare students with the introductory knowledge and skills
necessary for assisting classroom teachers. Students who earn this degree develop a solid
foundation of general education courses including communications, composition, history,
humanities, math, professional studies, science, social science and diversity/culture. In
addition to these core classes the paraprofessional emphasis area includes the following
specialized courses;
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
EP101
SS114
EP210
EP220
EP230
EP240
Introduction to Classroom Management
Child Development and Learning
Math Methods
Reading and Writing Methods
Survey of Special Needs
Assisting the ESL Learner
These courses are detailed below.
1. EP101 Introduction to Classroom Management
Course Description: This course will provide students with an overview of the
paraprofessional’s role in effective classroom management. Topics include an
introduction to classroom culture, the importance of communication and positive
interpersonal relationships in the classroom, motivation and learning methods, and
working with educational specialists to manage challenging student behavior. Emphasis
is placed on managing individuals and small groups and enhancing the learning
environment.
Course Outcomes: Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
1. Explain effective organizational and time management strategies for the
classroom
2. Explain the importance of setting clear expectations for pupil performance
3. Analyze the importance of the development of a positive classroom
environment and culture
4. Discuss the creation and delivery of lesson plans
5. Discuss elements of effective instruction
6. Apply team skills in an instructional environment
7. Describe the role of the educational paraprofessional in the classroom
8. Develop a personal philosophy of classroom management
Course Outline:
Unit 1: Welcome to Classroom Management
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Explain your reasons for entering the Educational Paraprofessional emphasis
program
Identify the key tools for success in Introduction to Classroom Management
Explain the importance of the syllabus and course format
Unit 2: Setting the Stage for Learning
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Define and explain the purpose of classroom management
Identify several of the issues involved with classroom management
Explain the importance of classroom culture
Discuss the importance of appropriate behavior in the classroom
Unit 3: Effective Work Habits
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Explain effective organizational and time-management strategies appropriate for
children’s needs
Describe effective management preparations for working with students
Describe effective instructional preparations for working with students
Unit 4: Establishing the Physical Learning Environment
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
Explain how children are affected by the physical learning environment
Describe an appropriate physical learning environment
Unit 5: The Classroom Culture
1. Explain the importance of and how children are affected by the classroom culture
2. Create a plan for establishing classroom expectations, given sufficient information
on needs
3. Explain how classroom norms establish behavioral and performance expectations
4. Explain why students should be involved in establishing classroom norms
5. Explain how the teacher must match the management plan to the unique needs of
the students
Unit 6: Shepherding Pupils
1. Analyze a model lesson plan and instructional strategies based on a set of given
needs
2. Explain how lesson planning takes into account learning styles, providing
meaning, and the importance of assessing closure
3. Describe the “Hunter Model” lesson plan
4. Describe Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences.
Unit 7: The Importance of Communication
1. Explain the importance of communication and feedback between all members of
the educational team
2. Develop a communication plan for exchanging information between the pupil,
teacher, and guardians
Unit 8: Handling Behavioral Challenges
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Identify and discuss various strategies for improving disruptive classroom
behavior
Discuss how children are affected by behavioral problems in the classroom
Develop a plan to deal with a child with behavioral problems
Unit 9: Examining Your Educational Beliefs and Learning Style
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
Explain how the assumptions of teachers or other authority figures can affect
performance and self-concept.
Synthesize what you have learned about classroom management into an analysis
of a classroom management plan
Unit 10: Creating an Educational Philosophy
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
Explain how your individual beliefs impact your educational philosophy
Examine how the course material will influence your performance as an
Educational Paraprofessional
2. SS114 Child Development and Learning
Course Description: This course will survey normative and non-normative cognitive,
social, and emotional development in children and adolescents. Students will use
developmental theory to understand why problems occur and how they may be resolved
in a particular age group. Using their understanding of how children and adolescents
learn and develop students will develop strategies to provide classroom assistance that
supports the intellectual, social/emotional, and personal development of all learners.
This course is designed for those students who are interested in the Education
Paraprofessional career field as well as those interested in a survey of child and
adolescent development and learning.
Course Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Describe the relevance of childhood development theories to childhood education
2. Explain the influences of family on child development
3. Identify the teaching strategies that support student achievement
4. Analyze the impact of diversity in the classroom
5. Describe the role of wellness programs on child development and achievement
Course Outline:
Unit 1: Introduction
1. Explain your motives for entering the Educational Paraprofessional emphasis
program
2. Understand the educational objectives of this course
3. Identify the key tools for success in Child Development and Learning
Unit 2: The Developing Child
1. Describe the three domains of development (physical, cognitive, and
psychological)
2. Discuss the basic issues in developmental study
3. Identify the scientific method, defining reliability and validity in research
4. Discuss how understanding a child’s developmental stages relates to the
classroom
Unit 3: Learning Theories and Child Development
1.
2.
3.
4.
Compare and contrast the major theories of child development
Discuss the major theories of learning and conditioning
Explain the influence of children’s developmental levels on classroom instruction
Identify the principle theorists to the field of childhood development
Unit 4: Memory and Motivation
1. Identify the types of memory and memory processes
2. Describe the basic assumptions of information-processing theories
3. Describe the effects of ADD and discuss the various approaches to promote
learning in students with ADD
4. Discuss techniques for improving memory
Unit 5: Family and Cultural Influences on the Developing Child
Define psychosocial theory and discuss the predominant psychosocial learning
theories
Describe the role of family in the process of development from infancy through
adolescence
Identify factors contributing to child abuse and neglect
Discuss cultural influences on a child’s development
Discuss how children are affected by their psychosocial developmental level relative
to learning
Unit 6: Differential Learning Ability
1. Discuss how children are affected by mixed learning styles, ability levels, and
multiple intelligences
2. Compare theories of intelligence and their implications on children’s ability to
learn
3. Recognize and discuss appropriate learning strategies that take into account
children’s different learning styles
Unit 7: Differential Cognitive Development and Behavior Problems
1. Recognize and discuss appropriate learning strategies that take into account
children’s different ability levels.
2. Discuss how children are affected by early intervention services and
differentiating instruction.
3. Explain the “No Child Left Behind Act’s” effect on the classroom
Unit 8: Technological Solutions for Enhancing the Educational Process
1. Give at least four examples of effective technology integration in the classroom
2. Discuss some of the advantages and challenges of integrating technology in the
classroom
3. Discuss how educational technology can help the educational professional meet
the needs of more students
Unit 9: Wellness and Cognitive Development
1. Discuss how children’s wellness affects their learning
2. Recognize and identify appropriate wellness regimens for a variety of children’s
needs
3. Describe some of the critical states in development that require attention to
wellness issues
Unit 10: Holistic Education
1.
2.
3.
4.
Discuss the definition of holistic education
Recognize and identify ways to teach children about themselves
Describe ways to promote healthy habits and relationships in children
Identify ways child development theories and learning will be utilized as a
Paraprofessional
3. EP210 Math Methods
Course Description: This course is designed to prepare students in the paraprofessional
emphasis area to proficiently assist pupils with basic math skills. Students will be
provided with opportunities to explore mathematical ideas using a problem solving
approach and a variety of manipulative materials. Emphasis is on problem solving,
reasoning, and the ability to communicate mathematical thinking orally and in writing in
accordance with current educational reform.
Course Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
1. Explain the central mathematical concepts of arithmetic, pre-algebra, and
geometry
2. Perform basic arithmetic, basic algebraic, and basic geometric operations
3. Identify developmentally appropriate grade level strategies for mathematics
instruction
4. Apply mathematical instructional methods to accommodate individual learning
styles
Course Outline:
Unit 1: Introduction and the Reform Movement
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Summarize the educational objectives of this course.
Discuss strategies for completing the courses’ learning activities.
Explain how your own math experiences relate to your professional role.
Examine the influences of math reform and explore contrasting philosophies of
mathematics.
Unit 2: A Review of Early Math Concepts
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Explain concepts of number sense and use strategies to facilitate instruction
Explain the whole-number place value system and identify effective teaching
strategies
Analyze the role of the paraprofessional in enhancing student performance
Unit 3: Child Readiness
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Explain the relevance of childhood development theories to education
Identify and understand different theoretical approaches and how they affect
teaching/learning.
Identify developmental theories best suited for particular needs of students.
Unit 4: Basic Facts and Operations
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Explain properties of math operations (addition/subtraction,
multiplication/division)
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Explain how you would apply strategies to enhance the teaching and retention of
math operations.
Discuss the importance of developmentally appropriate approaches and
applications of math concepts
Discuss different strategies for meeting individual needs of students
Unit 5: Understanding Fractions
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Explain basic principles of fractions and computation of fractions
Identify strategies for teaching concepts to students
Explain how to modify approaches based on developmental and individual needs
of the student
Unit 6: Measurement and Geometry
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Identify concepts students must acquire to perform measuring tasks including
length, area, volume, weight, mass, and angles.
Identify effective strategies for teaching these measurement tasks, in addition to
the measurement of time.
Explain the fundamental concepts of geometric thinking.
Identify applications for measurement and geometry that would be personally
relevant to students.
Unit 7: Decimals and Data Analysis
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Describe the relationship between decimals, fractions, and percentages
Identify skills students must acquire in order to perform calculations using
decimals and fractions
Explain basic data analysis and identify examples of it in everyday life.
Analyze developmentally appropriate strategies and examples in teaching these
concepts
Unit 8: Algebra and Functions
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Explain the fundamental concepts of algebra (the use of patterns and equations
with variables to express these patterns)
Apply algebraic thinking to problem-solving
Identify relationships that are considered functions and note some relevant
personal examples
Unit 9: Problem Solving and Technology
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Apply the problem-solving approach to other topic areas in teaching math
Explain how problem-solving requires an underlying genuine understanding of
math concepts, rather than a reliance on formulas or equations to memorize.
Identify strategies for incorporating technology into the classroom and with
individual students
Unit 10: Reflection and Professional Application
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Explain the practical applications of the math concepts and strategies you have
explored
Assess the progress you have made achieving the course outcomes
Analyze how your role, as a paraprofessional, can contribute to the reformed areas
discussed in the NCTM Principles and Standards
4. EP220 Reading and Writing Methods
Course Description: This course is designed to familiarize students in the
paraprofessional emphasis area with a developmental approach to balanced literacy
instruction. Emphasis will be placed on key reading and writing elements including
phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, comprehension, spelling, writing, listening,
speaking and vocabulary development. Students will explore strategies in order to
provide paraprofessional classroom assistance that supports the Language Arts program.
Course Outcomes: Upon successfully completing this course, student will be able to:
1. Explain developmentally appropriate strategies for reading instruction
2. Explain the interrelationship between the reading and writing processes
3. Analyze the relationship between vocabulary development, comprehension and
reading fluency
4. Discuss reading and writing strategies that can be effectively integrated across the
curriculum
Course Outline:
Unit 1: Introduction
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Summarize the educational objectives of this course.
Discuss strategies for completing the course’s learning activities.
Analyze the process of learning to read in your own life.
Examine the role of the Paraprofessional.
Unit 2: Learning to Read: Phonemic Awareness
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Describe the role phonemic awareness plays in reading readiness.
Identify examples of phonemic awareness activities designed to develop reading
readiness.
Examine the criteria for being a Paraprofessional.
Unit 3: Learning to Write
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Describe the developmental process of learning to write and how movement to
conventional spelling contributes to this process.
Identify effective strategies that support beginning writing and spelling
development.
Examine the standards and duties of the paraprofessional
Unit 4: Oral Language Development: Listening and Speaking
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Explain the importance of incorporating listening and speaking skills into the
Language Arts program.
Describe effective strategies that support oral and aural language development.
Examine your role as a paraprofessional in organizing the learning environment to
support your learners.
Unit 5: Reading to Learn: Comprehension
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Describe the skills necessary in developing reading comprehension.
Explain the challenges students face related to reading comprehension.
Recognize and describe the importance of instructional supervision for the
paraprofessional.
Unit 6: Reading Fluency
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
Identify reasons why struggling students may have difficulty in becoming fluent
readers.
Describe the skills that contribute to reading fluency.
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
Recognize and discuss effective strategies designed to encourage reading fluency.
Identify strategies used to monitor student learning.
Unit 7: Vocabulary Development
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Explain the importance of vocabulary development.
Recognize and effective vocabulary instruction strategies that can be incorporated
across the curriculum.
Identify effective ways to manage time to enhance instruction.
Unit 8: The Reading/Writing Connection
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Explain the interconnection between reading and writing.
Describe the Reading/Writing Workshop approach.
Identify effective strategies for managing student behavior.
Unit 9: Success for All
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Identify ways to welcome the second language learner.
Describe adaptations that can be made to individualize instruction in an inclusive
classroom.
Recognize and describe effective instructional methods to differentiate instruction
in a heterogeneous classroom.
Examine the professional and ethical behavior required of the paraprofessional.
Unit 10: Putting it All Together: Professional Application
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
Identify skills and strategies from this course that you can apply to your role as a
paraprofessional
Explain how you have met the course outcomes
EP230 Survey of Special Needs
Course Description: This course is designed for future paraprofessionals who will be
working with students with special learning needs. The paraprofessional student will
develop an understanding of some of the more common learning differences and
disabilities currently encountered in the mainstreamed and special education classrooms.
Students will also address issues of giftedness, learning strategies, behavior modification
as well as relevant federal legislation.
Course Outcomes
1)
2)
3)
4)
Identify characteristics of students with learning differences and disabilities
Explain how federal laws affect special education.
Apply strategies for addressing the individual needs of learners.
Select best practices from coursework to facilitate the goals of student Individual
Educational Plans (IEPs)
Course Outline:
Unit 1: Introduction
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
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Summarize the educational objectives of this course
Discuss strategies for completing the course’s learning activities
Define relevant terms such as special education, inclusion and disability
Examine the role of the Paraprofessional in light of the special education
population
Unit 2: Characteristics of Disabilities/Part 1
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
Identify the federally mandated classifications of disabilities in education
Discuss characteristics and behaviors associated with particular disabilities
Unit 3: Characteristics of Disabilities/Part 2
 Examine disabilities that affect student learning
 Identify the roles and responsibilities of the multidisciplinary team
Unit 4: Strategies for Addressing Individual Needs
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Differentiate between accommodation and modification in the learning
environment
Apply strategies for students with various learning differences
Identify and apply tools necessary for academic success
Unit 5: Organization and Behavior Management
 Identify organizational and listening skills that can enhance academic and
behavioral success
 Discuss behavioral strategies and coping skills

Explain self-control skills
Unit 6: Legislation and Student Rights
 Explain the new requirements for teachers and paraprofessionals
 Demonstrate an understanding of the educator’s responsibilities under federal
legislation
 Identify the key laws that affect the special needs student
Unit 7: Effective Communication-Becoming an Advocate
 Discuss the need for confidentiality
 Address issues of communication and routines to enhance relationships
 Apply strategies for collaborative teaching
Unit 8: The Role of Technology
 Identify some common low-tech technologies used to assist students
 Describe the less-obvious devices: communication board, alpha board, FM
transmitter, screen readers, speech recognition software, Lekotek toys
 Identify technological software/hardware options to modify instruction for both
advanced and learning disabled students.
Unit 9: Facilitating an Action Plan
 Outline strategies to assist students with special needs
 Define an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
 Establish short and long term goals for LD students
 Brainstorm ideas to analyze an "Action Plan."
Unit 10: Putting It All Together
 Identify the characteristics of an effective paraprofessional
 Reflect upon course strategies and topics discussed
 Define strategies from this course that you can apply to your role as a
paraprofessional
 Consider your own motivations for pursing this field.
EP240 Assisting ESL Learners
Course Description: This course is designed to help future educational
paraprofessionals meet the unique needs of second language learners. Students will
explore their roles in supporting ESL instruction in the classroom. This exploration will
include identifying strategies to address the social, emotional, and academic needs of
culturally diverse students.
Course Outcomes:
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
1. Discuss the increasing need for ESL education
2. Explain the cultural, social and emotional influences on student performance
3. Identify cross-curricular strategies that promote learning in ESL students
4. Contrast language acquisition strategies in ESL and bilingual education programs
5. Synthesize paraprofessional roles and strategies in the context of ESL instruction
Unit 1: Introduction
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

Examine the educational objectives of the course
Discuss the roles and expectations of the Paraprofessional
Examine the need for Paraprofessionals and explore desired skills and attitudes
Unit 2: Models of ESL Instruction
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Define and explore ESL instruction
Understand the roots of controversy in this area
Analyze benefits/challenges of ESL and bilingual programs
Unit 3: The ESL Learner: Know Your Student
 Analyze immigration trends and factors that contribute to the ESL population
 Explore the current ESL populations
 Consider unique challenges that face ESL students
Unit 4: Embracing Diversity
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Discuss cultural biases and stereotypes
Explore the culture of ESL students
Discuss social differences among various cultures
Unit 5: Learning the Language
 Explore patterns of language acquisition
 Compare different learning environments
 Discuss various learning strategies
Unit 6: Applying the Learning Strategies
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Discuss various ways of implementing learning strategies
Identify learning activities to implement learning strategies
Alter activity, strategy, and assessment to meet the needs of the student
Unit 7: Using Technology
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Examine the different computer-assisted instruction programs available
Explore audio enhancement options for students
Identify Internet sites appropriate to ESL learners
Unit 8: Special Considerations
 Explore the psychological, emotional and academic needs of ESL students
 Analyze the growth of ESL students in special education
 Discuss the affect of home language on students
 Identify adjustment strategies
Unit 9: Bridging the Communication Gap
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
Discuss effective communication strategies and identify the effects of culture on
communication
Explore ways to incorporate home life into education
Unit 10: Conclusion
 Identify skills and strategies from this course that apply to your role as a
paraprofessional
 Explain how you have met the course outcomes