Sunday, December 13, 2009

Modules 1-2

Based on articles #1 and #2:
What are the social and mental implications for children with learning disabilities?
It seems that those with learning disabilities are more likely to suffer for depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and attempts (also completion), along with disruptive behavior in the classroom. Children with learning disabilities are more likely to suffer from these due to lack of self esteem and boredom in the classroom from not understanding what is truly being taught.

Think back to when you were in school. What strategies do you remember teachers using (academic or behavioral). Think about how a child with a Learning Disability would respond to these strategies. Explain and comment.
Honestly it's horrible to say but there isn't anything that really sticks out in my mind of what a teacher I had used to help us learn. I know that if we acted out we were punished by detentions and having to meet with the principle. Sadly this is really all I remember. I think we were threatened a lot with detentions, suspensions and removal. However, I look at things now days and I always think to myself about how I never remember seeing TSS clients in my classrooms or hearing of alternative education programs. Maybe this is why I think that when I was in school not a whole lot was done. It really seems like it is of the new coming trend.

How will you refine your practices to address the social needs of students with disabilities?
I truly believe every student can be taught and most need to be taught in different ways because everyone learns differently. With my practices I think a big part of it will be making sure I have enough time meet with each student individually so I can see the progress they are making. I will also make sure that I keep documentation of the student and what is going on that way I can get them proper help. It's easy to sit here and type out what I think I would do, but it's not until I actually get in that situation that I know what I really need to do.

2 comments:

  1. I also think it is sad, I too do not remember what things were used. I do remember detentions and "loss of privelages". That seems to be what sticks out in my mind to. I Like your strategies and think I made some simmilar comments. And I agree with saying it is easy to say what you are going to do. With being a classroom currently there is so many things I want to do, wish I could do. Unfortunetly with lack of funds (and time) some things are hard to do. It is also difficult with the lack of support from higher ups or parents. But I feel we are going to rock at what we do and make the best of everything!

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  2. I believe that a lot of the problem behavior amy arise not out of frustrationor boredom but rather a defense mechanism. I think they may act out to attract attention to their behavior becoming the class clown or menace rather than their struggling in a particular subject. Growing up, I agree there wasn't a lot of help available in the form of special education, tutors, tss etc. Now it's there and out in the open. It has become commonplace. My teachers in grade school smacked our hands with rulers for poor penmanship for example. My hand stinging wasnt helping my poor penmanship. I know that a teacher isn't allowed to touch a student nowadays. This is good and bad. Yes, it protects them from abuse but; some kids need a hug or pat on the shoulder sometimes. Some kids may only recieve positive reinforcement at school.
    When I have my own classroom, I will be able to control what happens in my classroom. This will be hard if I know that a student isn't getting the support at home that he/she needs. I can provide support in my room. I can reach out to the parents and try and help them become more involved. I can recomend the student get services and hope that the parents follow through. Ican/will make time to help my students. I am hoping to teach younger students. If they are in grade school I will hope to allow 2 fifteen minute study times, one before lunch and one before dismissal. ihope that students will ask questions regarding homework then. I may even allow students to work in groups sometimes. Peer tutoring can be effective. I am hoping with a little extra help I can help reduce the frustration students might incur while in school. This should also allow some positive feedback for students who again may not be getting it at home.

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