Philosophy Of Special Education

Special Education is defined by the dictionary as classroom or private instruction involving, techniques, exercises, and subject matter designed for students whose learning needs cannot be met by standard school curriculum. I, on the other hand believe that Special Education is the above statement and more. My definition of Special Education is classroom or private instruction involving different techniques for students whose learning needs cannot be met by standard school curriculum; so that they may have the same learning experiences as students in regular education classes

Special Education is one of the most important ways that students can learn. Through special education students learn tolerance, love for differences, and a sense of spirit. Special Education students should not be shunned away into dark hallways and put into special classes; they should be with their friends and neighbors. Being segregated can cause life long trauma in self-esteem and worth. Teachers should understand and make adjustments for special education students while not letting the other students lag behind. The teacher should understand when they have done all they could to help the special education students they should then go to the school and ask them to fill in the rest.

I believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas.

There are three elements that I believe are helpful in establishing such an environment, the teacher acting as a guide, allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct their learning, and promoting respect for all things and all people.

Although these three elements are set in place and describe as helpful for special education, I believe that special education as well as regular education go hand in hand and can use these elements to enhance both forms of education. Regular and Special education I believe works together to bring children through the most important years in their lives. Regular Education as well as Special education is there to help students learn and excel in the world, the only difference that I know is that special education helps students who move a slower pace or can not learn the exact same way are their fellow classmates.

I believe that if we as teachers begin to guide are students in both forms of education, providing access to information rather than acting as the primary source of information, the students' search for knowledge is met as they learn to find answers to their questions. For students to construct knowledge, they need the opportunity to discover for their own self and practice skills in many different situations. Providing student's access to hands-on activities and allowing adequate time and space to use materials that reinforce the lesson being studied creates an opportunity for individual discovery and building of knowledge