SPED: CURSE OR GIFT
ANNE MYLENE F. JUSTO
No two individuals are alike, the statement that gives clear understanding of the differences in attitude and behavior among our school children. Apparently, these differences resulted on extremes: children where this ability is significantly above the norm for their age. Manifestations in one or more domains, such as: cognitive, intellectual, affective – creative, artistic, psychomotor – specific academic field. Parents having a gifted child is really a gift to nurture for it gives them pride and fulfillment for being a proud parent. In contrast, there are children who need assistance and help. It varies from categories of Autism, deafness, retardation and worst is multiple disabilities. Considering the gifted ones represent the school in many context. Children with disabilities are one of the most marginalized; less privileged and excluded groups in the society. Considering discrimination and treatment in this form of negative attitude, should I say they are cursed?
Special Education caters gifted and special children and being a teacher, this can be a challenging role to play. Gifted children means reinforcement since most of the activities that could be accorded to them is mainly a reinforcement. The teacher serves as a moderator and facilitator of learning. Since they already possessed that giftedness in intellectual aspect of learning, they tend to be more productive when working independently and in expressing themselves in their interests. There is a total difference among the children of special needs. In dealing with these children, extra effort and tremendous patience is being given on teacher’s part. This is the opposite of the gifted one. Hands on instruction, supervision and close monitoring are needed if you need one to excel from one skill to another and still this is not an instant response on results. It will take time for a teacher to see the progress.
Special Education: Curse? For those students who are called a disadvantage in the society. Gift? For those students who are helpful to the nation. Special Education: Curse or Gift? The challenge is within us as SPED teachers for either one of those groups, when neglected might not be a contributor but a burden. So it is better to keep in mind to discover the child’s potential. Work on the situation where they are, accept the very person and individual. Then look hard to nurture and support children as they reach for their personal development and excellence.
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The author is Teacher II at San Fernando Elementary School