Program Overview

The Child Abuse program is designed to help participants understand the special learning needs of abused or neglected children and how to meet those needs in the regular classroom. The program emphasizes working with parents and community agencies to support students affected by child abuse and/or neglect.

Program Details

• Instructor: Pamela Bernards, Ed.D.
• Grading Method: Letter (Letter)
• Credits: 3
• Department: EDUC (2000)
• Academic Level: K-12 Professionals
• Start/End Dates: 05/19/2026 - 08/07/2026
• Register By: 07/17/2026
• Term: Summer 2026
• Location: Online
• Instruction Mode: Internet Asynchronous (online class)
• Cost: $300

Description

The program focuses on identifying and effectively teaching students affected by child abuse and/or neglect. It discusses the identification of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, the impact of abuse on student behavior and learning abilities, and the responsibilities of teachers to report abuse or provide assistance to students who are victims of abuse. The program also covers methods for teaching students about abuse and its prevention, as well as specific factors present in families who abuse or neglect their children.

Objectives

• Understand the educator's role in protecting and supporting abused or neglected students
• Recognize the symptoms of child abuse and neglect
• Recognize the symptoms of depression and suicidal tendencies in youth, symptoms of child sexual trafficking, and symptoms of substance abuse in relation to child abuse
• Know their state and school district's child abuse reporting procedures
• Understand the causes of abuse and neglect in families and society
• Understand how abuse and neglect affect a child's brain structure and overall development
• Understand the special learning needs these students bring to the classroom
• Gain techniques for supporting students and families affected by abuse or neglect
• Learn intervention techniques applicable to the classroom setting
• Gain a wider knowledge of available outside resources and support systems
• Understand the educator's role in the intervention and prevention of child abuse and neglect
• Understand the concept of disproportionality in child abuse statistics
• Understand the cultural influences on child abuse and neglect
• Be able to determine whether the neglect of a child is due to poverty factors or parental neglect
• Understand how/why children with disabilities are at a higher risk for being abused
  eglected

Materials

Course materials are available online as part of the course, titled "Child Abuse: Working with Abused & Neglected Children" by Dr. Pamela Bernards and Joan Halverstadt.

North Dakota State University

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Overview:

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a public, land-grant, research university located in Fargo, North Dakota. It is a top-ranked R1 institution, known for its commitment to student-focused learning and its dedication to research. NDSU provides affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Admission:

NDSU provides comprehensive admission services, including application assistance, financial aid information, and campus visits.

Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Campus Life:

NDSU provides a vibrant campus life with various co-curricular activities, dining services, residence life options, and athletic events.

Student Support:

NDSU offers support services such as career advising, counseling, and wellness resources.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU provides ample research opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Online Programs:

NDSU offers a variety of online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various co-curricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports. The university also provides a variety of dining options, residence halls, and recreational facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

NDSU offers an excellent education at an affordable price.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Hands-on Learning:

NDSU emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical experience in their chosen fields.

Strong Faculty:

NDSU has a strong faculty committed to teaching and mentoring students.

Vibrant Campus Life:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community.

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Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Agriculture and Biological Systems:

NDSU is a leading institution in agriculture and biological systems, with strong programs in areas such as animal science, plant science, and biotechnology.

Engineering and Architecture:

NDSU offers a variety of engineering and architecture programs, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture.

Health Sciences:

NDSU has a strong presence in health sciences, with programs in areas such as nursing, pharmacy, and public health.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

NDSU offers a variety of humanities and social sciences programs, including English, history, and political science.

Business and Economics:

NDSU has a strong business and economics program, with programs in areas such as accounting, finance, and marketing.

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Other:

NDSU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it offers a variety of resources and programs to support students from diverse backgrounds. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.