Course Syllabus
Strategic Learning Coaching Level 1
Session 1
Focus on neurology
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A little primer on brain anatomy
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Neuroplasticity
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Could this be autism?
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Pre-frontal cortex and working memory
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Work of the prefrontal cortex
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Problems in the PFC
The neurology of ADHD
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Brain structures
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3 Flavors of Attention
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Role of Medications
Weaknesses in Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities
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Brain Structures
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Commonalities with ADHD
Brain Differences in Dyslexia and Written Language Disorders - Math
Asperger’s Syndrome and Relationship to NVLD
Class Exercise: What do you think we need to do to meet the needs of these students?
Session 2
Understanding Deductive and Inductive Reasoning
The core, fundamental strategic learning coaching needs of students with:
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NVLD
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ADHD
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Asperger’s Syndrome
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Dyslexia, Written Language Disorder and Math Disorder
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Application to all students who are struggling with issues in school
Small Group Exercise
Scenarios of different learning problems and students – applied to a particular school task – Development of strategies based on what you know so far
Sharing of work in small groups with the entire class
Session 3
Being a Strategic Learning Coach
The Conceptual Model of Strategic Learning Coaching
The Conceptual Model applied to a task: “Completing a Long Term Project”
What do kids need to know?
What will coaching look like?
- “As a coach”
- Typical questions a coach should frequently ask?
The Concept of “Tweaking”
- Tweaking Planning Worksheet
Small Group Exercise
Partial neuropsychological report given – participants will use tweaking worksheet to adapt strategies to the personal characteristics, likes and dislikes of the student
Sharing of small group work
Let’s start looking at strategies
Session 4
Study of strategies in the areas of:
- Strategic Reading
- Strategic Writing
- Graphic Organizers
- Organizing for Study and Learning
- Study / Memory Enhancement
- Oral Presentations
- Computer / Graphic Presentations
- Test Taking
- Essay
- Multiple Choice
- Short Answer
Motivation; Pitfalls; Involving Parents in your coaching
Computer Assistance and Technology in Strategic Learning Coaching (Demonstrations)
Introduction of Small Group Final Project
- Specific Case Studies – apply to a actual learning task
- Use of a presentation rubric and self-reflection
- More on rubrics and self-reflection
Session 5
Group work on case study – coaching plan – final project
Group presentations with reflections
Wrap-Up
Information on continuing strategic coaching resources, research and development through Strategic Learning Connections, Inc. website and subscription services; assistive technology product development
Information on Level 2 and Level 3 training
Becoming a part of STRATEGIC LEARNING CONNECTIONS, INC.
Franchise Opportunities
Certification as a Level 1 – Strategic Learning Coach - Congratulations!