Special Education

This topic can be a very tricky one when brought up among educators. It also tends to be a very controversial issue when it comes down to deciding whether a student should be in inclusion, a self-contained classroom, or resource room. Personally, I do not know anyone with a disability; however, when I did my Junior Field Experience, I observed a 2nd grade inclusion classroom, in which two children were autistic. It was not until then that this area of education started to interest me. The two students were able to complete the same work as the rest of the students and participated just as much as the "normal" child. I did notice that some students in the class would treat the two students unlike other friends because they knew that they were "different". At this point, I felt that this was where the teacher needed to step in. Inclusion gives a student with a disability the chance to be just like any other child. Removing them from the classroom automatically labels them as different. I feel that they need to socialize with others to help them assimilate not only in the classroom, but in the world and throughout life. With the rise in autism rates and other disabilities, it is easier for these children to assimilate since it is becoming so common. If every child was exposed to another child with a disability, then maybe the world would be a more comforting place in which people would understand and openly accept these children.


As of right now, I have no plans of becoming a Special Education teacher however I would like to learn more about it. I also believe that every teacher needs to be aware of disabilities that exist because one day they may end up in an inclusion class.


This video brought tears to my eyes...hope you enjoy and think about it :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aH9nMbNPPU