Learning Differences

The Learning Differences online course develops the student’s knowledge and understanding of a range of learning needs while giving you the opportunity to focus further on needs that may be particularly relevant to their setting.

The Learning Differences module will equip the student with a working knowledge of how current research, narratives on learning needs, and legislation around SEND apply to their setting. It presents an opportunity for the student to evaluate how well they and others understand these principles and to consider how to lead their setting in applying an effective and ethical narrative in relation to learning differences.

Learning outcomes: knowledge

On completion of this module, the successful student will be able to:

• Summarise historical and current trends relating to learning differences, including SEND legislation and guidance.
• Identify and explain myths and controversies around learning differences, including labelling and the medical model.
• Identify learning differences relevant in their setting, which may include gifted and talented, literacy difficulties, language difficulties, physical and sensory needs, and autism spectrum conditions.
• Select and evaluate evidence based provision and intervention, at universal, targeted and specialist levels.

Learning outcomes: skills

On completion of this module, the successful student will be able to:

• Evaluate their own and other’s knowledge and understanding of a range of learning differences as well as evaluate practice in their setting in relation to local and national provision for children with SEND.
• Select and use reliable sources of information about the main learning differences experienced by children and young people in schools.
• Critically analyse methods for identification and intervention with regards to the main learning differences experienced by children in their setting and propose sound recommendations for improvements.

Choose a start date that suits you

Start the module at a time of the year that suits you – October, February or June.

Cohorts begin in February, June, or October.

Book and enrol before 15 February to join our next cohort.

• Introduction to learning differences: prevalence and controversies, including terms, labelling and misperceptions.
  Identification, diagnosis and assessment.
• Psychological theories underpinning a range of learning differences including gifted and talented, specific literacy difficulties, physical and sensory needs, language difficulties and autism spectrum conditions.
• Positive management and intervention approaches to children with the above needs; Effective practice for gifted and talented, literacy difficulties, sensory needs, language difficulties and autism spectrum conditions; evidence based intervention along the continuum of need.
• The nature of inclusive practice and educational provision for children with language difficulties, sensory needs and autism spectrum conditions.

Module Structure

The Learning Difference online module is composed of five strands: an Introduction Strand, followed by three content strands, and finally a Submissions Strand.

The three content strands are designed to support the learner through the subject area:

Strand 1

• Gaining knowledge
• Historical context, current knowledge and research

Strand 2

• Understanding practice
• Legislation, guidance, best practice and current practice.

Strand 3

• Reflection and next steps
• Developing strategies for change.

Each strand comprises a sequence of practice led learning experiences.

Summative Assessment

Assessment is through three coursework assignments covering the learning outcomes and will consist of the following (numbers in brackets refer to learning outcomes assessed): 

Critical analysis (2000 words)

Perspectives on learning differences: How policy, practice and pupil experience and achievement are affected by different approaches to inclusion

Practice analysis (2000 words)

Provision and intervention: Write a critical review of how an identified learning difference is understood, managed, monitored and provided for in your setting and a plan for practice development.

Reflective analysis (2000 words)

Reflections on the impact of this module: A review of knowledge gained, perspectives changed and leadership skills developed.

Do you have an undergraduate degree?

You will need one to take this module.

Already working in an education setting?

You will get the most out of this module if you work in an education setting with children, young people or adults.

Or do you require access to an education setting?

You will need to get written permission from a senior member of staff to regularly access a setting. We will show you the best way to do this, enabling you to carry out our learning activities in your chosen setting.

Please note

As part of this process, you will also need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Visit GOV.UK for more information.

Are you based in an international setting?

This course is available online and can therefore be completed anywhere in the world. Please click here for advice on payment options and other information relevant to those studying outside of the UK.

• Single payment of £1,300 + VAT.

Speak to us (01273 358080) or make a booking.

Cohorts begin in February, June, or October.

Book and enrol before 15 February to join our next cohort.

Please note: as it takes time to process your application and payment, we strongly recommend to register as soon as possible, so that you don’t miss the next intake.

Our Programme Prospectus will provide you with additional information on M-level practice-led learning modules in Leading Inclusive Education.

Download the prospectus.