"Disabilities may mean differences but they never mean 'I can't'."
I walked into this book with several pre-conceived notions, most having come working with students that have severe, multiple disabilities, or behavioral issues that have required them to be pulled out into a self-contained environment or school. I have worked with students with disabilities for several years and they have always had a dear, dear place in my heart, which is one of the reasons why I opted to read this book in the first place. I wanted to hear what someone said about their involvement in the Inclusive classroom.
I really appreciated all of the concrete ideas that were offered in some of the chapters that were read—different ways to differentiate and incorporate different learning styles into activities. Practical things for the classroom. I also found it interesting just how little was addressed about specific disabilities themselves. I believe that there is a place for diverse learners both in and out of the classroom but that it is dependent on the teacher, the situation, the child and the content. I have always worked with students who are both pushed in and pulled out of the classroom. After reading this book I am convinced that the more we can push students in to classes and still do them justice the better.
Hi Ruthie-
ReplyDeleteI want to thank you for your insights into this book throughout the sememster. You brought up some very powerful ideas and stretched the knowledge into other subject areas. I especially liked your initial blog and also the pictures of the basketball team and girl sitting outside of the principals office. I was so impressed with how I was able to use this blog as a tool to not only find strategies for my students but also to teach my own children about diabilities. My son and daughter have been exposed to many of the topics that we have discussed....really we discussed the videos and pictures but it was giving them information through a modality that they felt comfortable. As we continue to take future classes together, I am sure that this book will be a resource for us. Thanks again for digging deep into our subject for new ways to view students with disabilities.
Andrea Koppen
Ruthie,
ReplyDeleteI also have worked with students with special needs in self-contained, district based, and general ed. I agree with you, students with special needs should be able to be in a gen ed. class with the right accomodations to create a successful environment. We need more teachers like you and I'm glad that you enjoyed the book.
Melissa R.