Thomas Hehir is working to expose the bias and systematic failures that students with disabilities are forced to face in the education system. Hehir emphasizes that the causes of these barriers are formed by assumptions and practices that in turn, limits these students. Many of these students are being represented in a stereotypical way, that only works to hinder what they are provided in the classroom. Throughout his writing, he provides a variety of ways to help improve the opportunities students are provided, while also sharing examples of how these biases directly challenge these ideas. Hehir often times discusses that schools are working to become more diverse racially and ethnically, but why not include disabilities?
One of Hehirs most impactful ideas was the push to promote high standards, rather than high stakes. He explains how this assumption is one of the most damaging to these students, making them seem that they are incapable. This system, rather than utilizing the skills and knowledge that they do have, will penalize individuals based on what they can't do. An example of this penalization would be the use of standardized testing that can keep students from graduating if they don't meet a certain benchmark. Similarly, assuming that all students with a disability needs to be placed into lower level classes can hinder those who can excel in subjects if placed in the regular level class. A more detailed example of this can be shown in the speech held by Dr. Thomas Hehir alongside one of his prior students, who shared his experiences in the classroom. One discussion point was in his english class (that he already had to push to be placed into), while everyone was assigned to do a several paged paper, he was told he only needed to do 3 paragraphs. He went on to write over the requirement of his classmates, with his essay on the Titanic. This student went on to graduate high school, go to college, and further on get a job.
The emphasis to understand the different needs of students based off a ability is something that is very important to be able to do. While some students with disabilities will need help outside of regular level classrooms, it is essential to have the awareness that some students will benefit much more by being in those classes. With this comes the need to provide students with support and utilize the resources that they can succeed with instead of using separation as a way to educate. Placing these students in the same class level as other students, has led to significant improvement in skills and education, with many getting jobs and pursuing a higher education.
Hi, I agree that students with disabilities should be in the same classes as regular students rather then being separated and making them feel that they only belong is special classes.
ReplyDeleteI really liked the last sentence in your attachment: "If the adult in the room can find joy in the pursuit of knowledge even in the face of challenges, then the students are much more likely to do the same, and in the end, everyone will have won."
ReplyDelete