Working with students with special needs
As an instructor I think that it is important to be able to understand differences in students and to be able to accommodate them. We should know what our students special needs are so that we can help or either offer them the resources that can help them.
Colleagues,
I think as successful educators we need to be students with special needs.
A special needs student needs to know that you are there for him/her and that you are willing to accommodate.
I also think that when you have a special needs student in class that teams or groups can be effective so that a special needs student feels included.
Over the past year I had a special needs student who took her special needs a little too far and did not want to complete the coursework.
I explained to her that she did not fulfill all of her team requirements and that she was afforded every opportunity.
Her grade was reflective, and she understood and never questioned - Interesting!
Deena
Hi Laurie!
An AH ha moment that is celebrated can be the very moment that a special needs student knows he/she can be successful. It is definitely a powerful experience.
Unless the school has a way of sharing student learning needs, it often becomes a game of fish because students are reluctant to self disclose because of past discriminations. It is a delicate process for instructors.
I commend you - you are committed to student successful outcomes.
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
Great post! I always welcome students with special needs into my classroom. I think it is wonderful when they get that Ah ha moment even if you have had them in the same class for three years. It makes my heart dance!
