My Philosophy of Special Education

My Philosophy of Special Education

Equal Opportunities Every person deserves the same opportunities despite of their race, gender, height, or

weight. As an educator, I have to ensure every student in my classroom receive the same amount of education opportunities. Students without disabilities deserve an appropriate education along with those who have a disability. Creating equal opportunities in my classroom is my philosophy of special education. Who is Capable of Learning?

Every child can learn. Having a disability does not indicate the student is not capable of learning. A student with a disability can learn just like a student without a disability. As a teacher, I will ensure my classroom is filled with plenty of opportunities for each student. "The basic idea of universal learning (UDL) is that new curricular materials and learning technologies should be designed from the beginning to be flexible enough to accommodate the learning styles of a wide range of individuals, including children with disabilities" (Heward 21). I have the responsibility of presenting materials using multiple techniques. If I do my part as the instructor, all of my students will learn despite their conditions. The Impact of IDEA and Section 504

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) focuses on equal treatment for people with disabilities and making sure they are granted the same rights and privileges as other citizens. This act guarantees no disabled child is rejected from a public school, they are evaluated using nonbiased tests, the rights of the student and parents are protected, and the parents are able to participate in their child's placement decisions (Heward 16-20). The IDEA is essential because it provides a safe haven for children with disabilities and allow them to receive an education similar

to a child without a disability. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (1973) expanded opportunities to children and adults with disabilities in education, employment, and various other settings (Heward 25). The IDEA and Section 504 Act opened education opportunities to children with disabilities. Obstacles and Solutions

Children with disabilities encounter obstacles daily, whether in school or in their communities. Learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, speech impairments, and physical impairments are a few of the obstacles these students face (Heward 8). As an instructor, I can make a difference. Because my philosophy is equal opportunities, I can provide a variety of instructions to reach each student in my classroom. Every child has different needs and it is my duty to create opportunities for each student. Learning my students will allow me to better understand how they attain information. It is important for me to have flexible teaching methods. Location of Education for Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities need to be included. A general classroom setting can provide them the opportunity to learn with their peers who have no disability. This concept is considered to be least restrictive environment (LRE). While deciding where to place a child, their condition should be taking into consideration (Heward 67). Some children with disabilities are not able to fully learn in a general education classroom while others can. Important Role of Special Education Teacher

In a school system, there are children who are eager to learn as well as children who lack interest in education. Being a motivator is an important role of special education. It is imperative to keep an open mind and understand not every student will have outside motivation. While the

students are in the teacher's care, he or she should encourage self-determination while providing that extra support. Role of Regular Education Teacher

In most cases, students with disabilities spend most of their day in a general education classroom. Although they receive specific assistance by a special education instructor, while present in the general classroom, it is the regular teacher's job to enhance their learning. The most important role is creating equal opportunities. Each lesson should be taught in a manner that reaches students with or without disabilities. If needed, provide one on one instructions.

Every student deserves an education. Students with disabilities require a little more attention, but are to not feel isolated from others. My philosophy of special education is equal opportunities. Every child deserves a chance.

References

Heward, William L., Exceptional Children: An Introduction to Special Education. 10th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education/Merrill/Prentice Hall, 2006. Print.

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