Classroom Diversity - Assignment 6

In the classroom I have sat in on, I have noticed that the teacher's classroom is very structured and every class period follows the same basic outline - she has a lecture prepared with helpful slides to accompany them, along with the lecture, she has paper handouts with helpful ways of prompting the students to take notes while she talks. Then, after the lecture, she gives the students time to either work in groups to fill out the rest of the worksheet, or free time for doing and making up homework. 

I have observed that the majority of the students have responded quite well to the structure of this classroom. When they break up into smaller groups after the lecture, for the most part, they all seem to help each other in finishing up the work. I have also noticed that many students utilize their time well in finishing up the work or making up late homework assignments. 

I feel like the teacher has found a great way for her to teach efficiently while also using a variety of different teaching techniques that seem to reach almost all of the students. I am aware of at least a few students in her classroom who have special needs, and I observed them working very well within her classroom structure.

Historic Connection - Entry #5

In my service learning experience, there have been multiple students present in the classroom that have special needs. One of which has a special aide to help with sign language if the student doesn't hear correctly, and another teacher comes into the room to support multiple student at the same time. These are direct evidence of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in action. I am sure these students each have individual IEP's and have their progress monitored and supported - yet the fact that they were all in a general education classroom is proof that each of them has been placed in the "least restrictive environment" for their educational experience. Furthermore, no doubt the No Child Left Behind has had a hand in these students progress and support.

Historically, it is difficult to learn that many of these children might not have even been admitted into school before 1973, as there was no requirement to educate children with disabilities. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act was the decision that made it possible for all children with disabilities to be able to seek an education. Furthermore, many of the students in the classrooms I have visited have been of various ethnic background and there is no doubt that the court decision made with Brown vs the Board of Education has had a direct effect on each and every one of these students. 

It is so interesting to see how far the education system in the United States has come in the last 50-60 years. I am so glad to be able to personally see how inclusive classrooms have become, to the point where it isn't even noticed that some students need extra help. In my school days, this would not have been the case. And I am so glad that so much progress has taken place!