Saturday, September 14, 2013
Personal Research Journey
I selected the topic, Pros and Cons of Inclusion in the Classroom, to research for this assignment. I chose this assignment because this is becoming a real possibility in our school system and I interested in learning what I can about this topic and how effective it is. As an educator, I have had experience with mainstreaming students, and I believe it did not go well because of my lack of training for this type of setting. So, if our county does move to an inclusive setting in the elementary school, I want to be ready and I want to be able to discuss this topic as professionally as possible. I believe that through this research, and through the help of my colleagues and their experiences, I will be able to attain this goal.
The articles that were shared that helped us identify quality and credible resources have helped me narrow my search as I have looked through several on this topic. I appreciate all the help that I can get on this topic and any links that have already been identified as quality resources. I know that we can learn through quality resources, but I am also interested in learning from past experiences as well! Please share any knowledge that you have regarding inclusion in the classroom.
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Amy,
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful topic to be researching! I have also noticed that many more schools are offering inclusive settings for their students and I believe that it is a great step for all of the members involved. When I was teaching Pre-K, I had a child that was diagnosed to be on the autism spectrum, but was not informed of that diagnosis when I started teaching in the classroom. After some time spent with my students, I approached my director and expressed my concerns (or really questions) about this particular student and the director then revealed some additional information to me about the child. This child was never disruptive or anything, but I noticed that her learning style was different. I was impressed at how well she participated in a "normal" classroom and felt honored that I had the opportunity to work with this student.
I also had the opportunity to work with a set of twins that were born prematurely when I was working with a local Early Head Start program. One of the twins was simply developmentally delayed, but the other had some severe health issues and had to be on oxygen all of the time. We still worked with the students in the classroom and both of the boys improved drastically in terms of social and physical development. They closed the developmental gaps and it was because they were placed in an environment where other children progressed through their normal day, encouraging the twins to try to keep up.
I am looking forward to following your blog and learning alongside you as you learn more about inclusion in the classroom!
Tiffany
Amy,
ReplyDeleteI had the opportunity to complete an internship in a classroom with an inclusive setting. There were 2 children with some form of autism and a few children who did not speak English. It was wonderful to see how the other children in the classroom helped the children. The teachers underwent initial training but also have ongoing training. It seems to be an ongoing process as children with different needs come and go. Best of luck with your topic.
I have a nephew that is part of an inclusion class. He is just starting kindergarten and I have notice the teacher seeming is in new "waters" when it comes to inclusion students. He was placed into this class because of ADHD and epilepsy, but I feel he is more gifted then disabled. Inclusion can be a great process for students that actually thrive as a part of it, but for those students; like my nephew, it can become a henderance.
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