What: In class we re-covered a lot of what we learned in our two prerequisite classes. We reviewed important parts of special needs students such as IEP, IDEA, inclusion, least restrictive environment, etc. IDEA- Individuals with disabilities Act, IEP- Individualized Education Plan, Inclusion- mainstreaming students with disabilities into the regular classroom, Least restrictive environment- one in which a child can thrive and meet their potential without restriction in the classroom. Further we discussed differentiation strategies and theories to which help meet the needs of many diverse intelligences.
So What:
Understanding how to help and address the needs of special needs students help schools, teachers, parents, and the child to progress forward on the right path for that child. Throughout the semester we have discussed many ways that students differ, and the important part for teacher is to appropriately address those differences in students so the student can maximize learning potential-- this also follows along with Gardner's multiple intelligences, where students are more capable of learning when specific intelligences are enhanced and explicated.
Now What:
As a teacher I want all my students to succeed, not just the easily taught "teacher's pet," but all my students to achieve success in learning. Whether I have students with difficult special needs, IEP's, or just need extra support my job is to be there for them, to teach them in the way they need. I understand that the real world of teaching is not "Polly Anna" and perfect, and most likely I wont be able to always fully address a students need, but dang it I will try!
I, actually, love Gardner's Multiple Intellegences because it gives me an opportunity to be creative with my lessons and activities... which in truth, lets be serious, old school teaching was a little mundane and needed a little more sparkle. I think activiely approaching new and creative ways to teaching helps many types of student intellects engage and achieve success in school.