Introduction to Special Education is a required course for all who are certified to teach in Nebraska. Students examine various areas of exceptionality, including learners who are identified as gifted and talented, mentally handicapped, behaviorally disordered, visually impaired, hearing impaired, language disordered, autistic, physically handicapped and other health impaired. Legal definitions, litigation, characteristics, etiology, prevalence and educational adaptations for each exceptionality are investigated, as well as issues confronting individuals across the lifespan will be addressed. Pre-referral alternatives, referral systems, multi-disciplinary team responsibilities, the Individual Education Plan process, placement procedures, various service delivery systems and family issues will also be examined.