This chapter is so full of great information.
The idea of inclusion has become synonymous with integrating hardcore special educated kids. But in reality, an inclusive classroom is one that doesn't tolerate bullying or doesn't allow a shy student to sit silently or doesn't let an apathetic student wallow in inactivity. To be inclusive means just what it says...to get EVERYONE included. That's why I integrate the learning styles activities with this chapter. To be a great teacher, you have to reach every child (if you can). Set expectations high but give the tools to achieve them. If your class is full of kinesthetic learners, then lessons should be active. If there are kids who are auditory and visual, then make sure all lessons have a listening and viewing component. It's SO important to know who your students are, how they learn, and what may connect with them. Within this chapter, you get some insight into the IEP process, into how disabilities are served in public schools, and various philosophies and ethics of meeting those needs. For your blog, you'll tell me a couple of things you learned, a few things you already knew, and how this information can help you be/become a better teacher...
Before you complete any of the learning styles activities, you'll take the surveys, watch my video that I'll post later today to see what these look like, go through the packet I posted on Moodle, and then you will be making some of your own! THESE are the real activities you will do in your own classroom, so be thinking about how you can integrate these information into your future classroom!
Remember to respond to everyone's blogs! :-)
I like the fact that you view an inclusive classroom as one that includes everyone, not only special ed. students. Your point about the teacher having a huge impact on classroom success also stuck with me. In one of my classes last year, we discussed the importance of teachers putting certain students together to form bonds. For instance, putting the "popular" kids with the shy kids in order to help them become friends and also to switch up groups within the classroom. This is an interesting strategy and definitely makes a difference in the classroom.
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is very important to know who your students are, and how to connect with them. It could mean the difference between them passing and failing in some cases, and in others even being a good role model for a student that didn't have one before. Connecting with students is key to their success and continuity in their educational careers.
ReplyDeleteThere are definitely not enough teachers who are in tune with their students' learning styles. Throughout my entire education I struggled the most in classes that were not inclusive - lecture-based classes are not my friend, let me tell ya. I kicked butt in classes that were more focused on discussion though, and it makes sense why. I was able to talk through what I was learning, and bounce my ideas off of all of the participants in the room, students and professor alike. Thank you, Dr. Bum, for recognizing the importance of learning styles.
ReplyDeleteStudents are all different and have unique ways of learning material. I agree that teachers do not always completely get in tune with their students. The different styles of learning whether it be kinesthetic, visual or auditory. Some of the best teachers I have had incorporate all these styles somehow into their lessons. Coming from a Physical Education stand point I think kinesthetic learning and auditory styles are great for getting students involved in the class and gaining maximum attention. The first chapter was interesting because of the story relating to the child Jason. My nephew is 6 years old and was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome. Despite similar behavioral problems, he does struggle with working around other children. He has improved tremendously though with continuous positive feedback while doing most any activity.
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