Rethinking Disability: A Reflection



Andrea Koppen:  Blog #8:  Book Reflection

In the beginning of the semester, I was given the opportunity to rate the textbooks in order of my interest. I was torn as to pick something familiar or to choose something new.  At first, I thought that I should choose something that I knew nothing about as to learn more about the topic.  I then asked our teacher her opinion and it changed my ranking of the texts.  She mentioned that I should choose one that I think I know alot about and use the text to find things to add to my schema about the topic or to become an expert in the area. We can never stop learning.  I chose the book pertaining to students with disabilities. I am so glad I did!

As I was given the task to read this textbook for class, I immediately started planning of how I wanted to attack the book.  I skimmed the material, noted how long it was and counted how many chapters.  I looked at this text using a strategic approach.  I was so nervous about how to set up, edit and publish my blog that I didn't even think about the actual book until I began to read.  Using the format of the literature circle significantly assisted with my engagement with the text.  I felt as if I was being forced to look at the text through different eyes each week.  I definitely feel that using the literature characters posed more questions for my mind to ponder.

I can really connect to the title, "Rethinking Disabilty".  The information in the text introduced me to unfamiliar terms and vocabulary and forced me to examine my strategies that I have used in my teaching. I was not familiar with many strategies noted but saw how resourceful they would be for my students.  I think one of the terms  in the book that really stood out for me was ableism.  Honestly, I had never really heard this term until I began to do research on it, due to the literacy circle requirements.  I had to "rethink" my views on disabilities.  As a speech therapist, I am constantly observing students and noting the areas that they find more challenging.  After reading this book, I have realized how little I really do look at the student's strengths.  This was difficult to admit but I looked at it as a stepping stone in growth within myself and my profession. 


By reading this book, I have been able to examine old and current stereotypes of people with disabilities in our society and to acknowledge how they affect my teaching.  It has brought to light what I truly believe and how I would teach in a diverse classroom. I would begin by identifying the students strengths and using these to assist their weaknesses. This book has given many examples of strategies for teachers to utilize as well as knowledge about how an inclusive classroom benefits all involved.  I have told many of my classmates about this book and have mentioned how this is a excellent resource for teachers to work with other teachers, guide students with disabilities, enhance students awareness of disabilities and to academically provide new and innovative strategies to reach all students.  I have used the content in this book for my other class many times and believe I will continue to do so in the future. 

By reading this book, it has given me a restructured belief that we can work together as professionals  in collaboration with our students to spread the knowledge of disabilities using positive language, differentiated instruction strategies and continued learning.