In her book, The Power of Different, Gail Saltz shows the connection between strengths and weaknesses within the brain. Readers learn how individuals with brain differences cope and even succeed in school and life through first-hand accounts. She also focuses on “adults and children from all walks of life who have contended with some degree of mental disorder yet have thrived and achieved extraordinary things.”

Saltz, a psychiatrist, reveals the struggles of individuals with dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, depression, manic-depressive illness (bipolar disorder), schizophrenia, or ASD (autism spectrum disorder). Readers will understand the behavioral symptoms of these disorders and the science behind what is happening inside the brain. Drawing on her research, Saltz concludes that we can help these individuals succeed or excel in school.

Educators taking this course will learn where to look for strengths in these students. Disabilities may hide these strengths, but finding them is necessary for tapping into these students’ potential. Saltz offers to guide readers in finding these hidden strengths and understand how to help students with brain differences succeed in the classroom. As part of this course, educators will also investigate special topics and integrate new learning into their teaching environment.

This course is equivalent to 3 semester hours or 4.5 quarter hours. It is a graduate-level course intended for K-12 educators who have completed a bachelor’s degree. It is recommended that you receive board or district approval before registering with TPAI.

See reviews of the book at Amazon.com.

*You are responsible for purchasing your own course book.