My research topic is on inclusion. The first
subtopic is; how is being served in inclusionary classroom environments
impacting typically developing children? The second subtopic I have chosen is;
are children with specific learning needs being served appropriately in
community settings like Head Start and community day cares. My third subtopic
is what implications does the role of mentor have in supporting early childhood
teachers who are serving children with special educational needs in community
setting?
Picking inclusion as my topic for the simulation was
not too difficult. I had taught in a special education classroom for the last
twenty years. The program was unique, as it served children who qualified for
special educational programming, along with serving families who qualified for
Head Start programming. The classroom was housed in a Skilled Nursing Facility.
It is a great program. I love how it takes on the needs of many. I left the
classroom in 2011, and now through the pursuit of the Masters am forging new
professional paths. Throughout my teaching role, I had questions I would ponder
in relationship to how children with varied learning needs are being best
served. This is what led me to pick my subtopics.
As I write this, I am wondering what if any
experiences do my colleagues have with varied learners? Do any of you have
first hand experience with mentoring or being mentored? If so what are your
opinions?
With this being our first blog assignment, I would
just like to say I am looking forward to reading more about each of your own research
simulations.
Millie
Millie
ReplyDeleteI have also taught special education for 18 years now. Inclusion is a challenging topic for some older teachers. You have to love this field to stay in it for a long time. I have mentored student teachers in the past and will be the mentored in a few weeks with an adjunct position that I have applied for. I loved mentoring student teachers. I looked at it as not only their mentor, but what could I learn from them. They are fresh out of college and had some wonderful new ideas.
Wanda,
DeleteI would love to hear more about your classroom. Where it is located and how you ended up in the field of special education?
I think mentoring others is extremely fulfilling. My hope is to be able to go into community programs, preschool, daycares, and work with educators who do need support working with children with varying needs.
Thank-you for your comment!!
Millie
Millie,
ReplyDeleteI was a special education teacher for 5 years in a self contained special education classroom. Most of my students' were not able to be in general education, however, I had some that were ready for inclusion. When trying to include my students' in general education I was confronted with resistance from teachers' and administration. Inclusion is something I strongly believe will be the way in education. I love your topic because it is so important and relevant. I look forward to reading about your findings!
Amber,
DeleteThank-you for your support. My hope is to find information, articles and research which is relevant to my topics.
Can you tell me too more about your special education classroom. Is it an early childhood classroom?
I would love to hear and I am interested in your experiences.
Thank-you, Millie