I want to create an extended comment for Emily's post on this piece. I believe her connection between the reading and her life shows the reality of working with special needs students. She points out that it can be difficult teaching students who are not at the same learning level as she is. Her description of her experiences creates a great framework for Kliewer's writing. I also agree with Emily when she discusses the stereotype surrounding people with down syndrome. Like her, I have also given in to that stereotype. However, I realize that not everyone with down syndrome is the same and it would be unfair to treat them any different.
All students should have the right to equal education opportunities no matter who they are. It's unfair to treat a child any differently whether they have a disability or not. If a child has down syndrome, I believe they should be integrated into regular classrooms. If we start integrating students with down syndrome into regular classrooms, this can help stop the stereotype that has been created. We shouldn't limit students because of a disability.
Inclusion - This video talks about inclusion classrooms for special needs students. Inclusion secures opportunities for students with disabilities to learn alongside their non-disabled peers in general education classrooms.
Question: Do you think that integrating special needs students into a regular classroom is a good idea? Why or why not?

You did a really great job! The video you included is very insightful! I think you asked an important question as well, hopefully we talk about it in class!
ReplyDeleteI thought you did a solid job explaining the article. I also enjoyed the video you included in your post. I agree with your point that "All students should have the right to equal education opportunities no matter who they are."
ReplyDeleteSerena,
ReplyDeleteI just read Emily's blog, and you did a great job expanding her thoughts! I also really like the idea you included at the end about inclusion. I'm interesting in learning more about it. Great job!
Good summary of different authors and adding your own opinion to the piece.
ReplyDeleteI can imagine it would not be easy to integrate down syndrome students into traditional classrooms, but it would not be impossible. Worth a shot right?
ReplyDeleteyou did a good job expanding on Emily's blog/thoughts. I think classrooms should be intergraded in order to drop the stigma that is placed around the special needs community. With that being said maybe in the classrooms that are intergraded they can add and extra teacher to help.
ReplyDeleteGreat job Serena! I agree with you completely that by segregating classrooms we are only furthering the stigma. Children with Down syndrome should not be disadvantaged at school just because of something out of their control. To answer your question, I believe integrating classrooms would be great with the exception of behavioral disabilities that cause children to be a danger to themselves or others. Other than that I don’t see why classrooms can’t be integrated.
ReplyDeletegreat job! I agree with everything you have said!
ReplyDelete