Postgraduate Studies:

Special Education in the field of Education and Rehabilitation of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (Oligophrenopedagogy) for Subject Teachers

GOAL OF THE STUDIES

The goal of the studies is to familiarise students with the basic theoretical and practical issues related to the education and rehabilitation of students with intellectual disabilities, in particular to equip them with knowledge about intellectual disability, the development and functioning of people with disabilities and their specific educational, emotional and social needs. An important aspect of the studies is also shaping the interpersonal skills of the pedagogue, and above all, acquainting him with the methodological workshop and equipping him with practical skills in designing and conducting classes with people with disabilities (with particular emphasis on hearing impairment).

DESCRIPTION

The studies are addressed to teachers who wish to obtain qualifications to work with a student with intellectual disability within the framework of their eligibility to teach the subject. The studies provide qualifications in special education in the field of surdopedagogy in accordance with the Regulation of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of 25 July 2019 to all persons with pedagogical preparation to teach the subject.

The curriculum of postgraduate studies is focused on shaping competences to work with people with disabilities, with particular emphasis on people with intellectual disabilities in special, inclusive, public and individual institutions.

GRADUATE PROFILE

The graduate is qualified to work as a teacher for students with intellectual disabilities in special, inclusive, and public schools.

The graduate has systematised and expanded knowledge in the field of special education and its contemporary concepts, in particular the education of people with intellectual disabilities; theory of special education; social and professional functioning of people with disabilities at various stages of life, and their economic and legal basis; organisation of the education system and upbringing as well as social policy instruments for people with intellectual disabilities; human development in terms of psychology and neuropsychology; early support for the child’s development; has systematic knowledge of the methods of work used in relation to intellectual disability and the possibility of their effective use, has in-depth knowledge of the methodology of work with students with intellectual disabilities.

In terms of skills, the graduate is able to use interdisciplinary knowledge in order to conduct scientific research and independently solve theoretical and practical problems; create individual development programs and design diagnostic and didactic tools for work with children, adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities; design and conduct diagnosis and therapy of the discussed group of students. The graduate knows and is able to use appropriate methods within special methodologies, adequately to the degree and type of disability as well as educational, rehabilitation, and therapeutic needs.

In terms of social competencies, the graduate is sensitive to the problems of disabled and socially maladjusted people, their education, upbringing and social development, understands the role of art in educational, therapeutic and upbringing activities, the graduate is able to interact with other specialists and the family of a disabled person, can make decisions in accordance with ethical and professional standards

CURRICULUM

During the three-semester studies, students will learn the basics of surdopedagogy and typhlo-pedagogy as well as education of people with the autism spectrum. Students will learn the legal, medical and psychological aspects of education and rehabilitation of people with intellectual disabilities, as well as the methodology of teaching and upbringing. The program is complemented by classes in alternative and supportive communication, social and cultural aspects of intellectual disability, basics of speech therapy and an internship programme.

LECTURERS

Classes are conducted by qualified employees of the University of Silesia with both qualifications and competences in the field of education and rehabilitation of people with intellectual disabilities, as well as teachers, therapists – practitioners, cooperating with the University of Silesia under contracts with external stakeholders.

ORGANISATION

Duration:
Number of semesters: 3
Number of hours: 660 hours (including internship)

Organisation of classes:
Classes take place on Friday (from 3 p.m.), on Saturday and Sunday – two sessions per month on the average. A small part of the practical classes takes place on Friday from 9 a.m.

Graduation criteria:
In order to complete postgraduate studies, a student must defend the diploma thesis.

Graduation document:
Postgraduate diploma issued by the University of Silesia in Katowice.

ADMISSION PROCESS

Candidates
The studies are addressed to university graduates with eligibility to teach the subject or teaching eligibility to teach in early school education, and pre-school education.

Admission process:
Apply online
Electronic admission process in Online Application System (IRK) on the dates specified in Online Application System (IRK). Choose and proceed according to the instructions.

Admission criteria:
Candidates are admitted to studies according to the registration order and the result of the admission procedure (if it was conducted).

Planned date of beginning classes: October 2021

FEES

After being admitted to postgraduate studies, you may start your studies, subject to paying the fee for postgraduate studies. Payments should be made to the student’s individual account, within the deadlines specified in the agreement.

CONTACT

Head of Postgraduate Studies
Prof. Zenon Gajdzica
tel. 508 87 64 54
e-mail: zenon.gajdzica@us.edu.pl

Secretary Office
Aleksandra Kobielus
e-mail: aleksandra.kobielus@us.edu.pl

Faculty of Arts and Educational Science
43-400 Cieszyn
ul. Bielska 62
Tel. 33 854 63 71