Candidates are introduced to the characteristics of individuals with exceptional needs through strengths-based philosophy and educational practices modeled in the classroom. This course will explore factors including but not limited to cultural differences, socio-economic disadvantages, and gender biases, in order to achieve awareness of students’ strengths and individuality of persons with differing experiences. There is an introduction to the legal requirements of educating culturally diverse learners in the least restrictive environments. This course is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) to meet the mainstreaming requirements for a Clear Teaching Credential for the Multiple-Subject and Single-Subject Preliminary Credentialed student.