Special Education

Self-Reflection 4

Directions:

Read the statement and choose a response that matches your thinking. You can click the link to see where the quote came from if you want to know more. Given what you have learned in this course as well as your own perceptions of special education, do you agree, disagree, partially agree? As you are reflecting, think about what the quote means, how we as educators can do the best for our students, and any life experiences that may shape your thinking on this topic. You might pull in some of your ideas from previous modules including your teaching philosophy and knowledge of students with disabilities to help respond to this statement. 

(When you have finished upload to blackboard in the following format: Lastname_Reflection_4)

Statement:

“Unfortunately, this bill promises more than the Federal Government can deliver, and its good intentions could be thwarted by the many unwise provisions it contains. Everyone can agree with the objective stated in the title of this bill -- educating all handicapped children in our Nation. The key question is whether the bill will really accomplish that objective. Even the strongest supporters of this measure know as well as I that they are falsely raising the expectations of the groups affected by claiming authorization levels which are excessive and unrealistic (Ford, 1975, para. 2)”

Now, take some time to reflect on the quote above and rate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following prompts:

	1-Strongly Disagree	2-Disagree	3-Neutral	4-Agree	5-Strongly Agree	In a couple of sentences, explain your thinking when reflecting upon these prompts.
My overall level of agreement with this statement
This statement is in agreement with the field of special education
This statement reflects how I understand disability and special education
IDEA has been a success
What IDEA promises is excessive and unrealistic

What lens are you taking when reflecting? Check all that apply:

__ Parent/guardian

__ Teacher

__general education

__special education

__ Paraeducator, instructional assistant, aide, etc.

__ Administrator

__general education

__special education

__ Other experience with children (e.g. tutor, nanny, camp counselor, etc)