The Importance Of Intellectual Disabilities

Before answering the question, it is best to give a clear definition of the term intellectual disabilities. The textbook defines intellectual disabilities referred to as “mental retardation”, as “A disability characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills; the disability originates before age 18.” (Heward p 132) The term mental retardation shifted to intellectual disabilities due to the fact that the terminology is more consistent and less offensive to people with disabilities. Some of the characteristics students with intellectual disability exhibit, as shown on page 4 of the handout, include difficulty remembering, slower to …show more content…
As I have mentioned students with intellectual disabilities learn differently and are unique learners. The curriculum goals should vary depending on each of the individualities of the student. According to the text, “Programs for all students with intellectual disabilities should include the basic skills of reading, writing, and math” (p.147). I agree with this as a way to teach academics, however for students to be able to develop the skills needed in everyday life, teachers need to be able to teach life skills well. There are educational programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities that focus on life skills to be the learning goal. The skills taught are important and it will motivate the student’s independence in the future. They will learn how to be a functional citizen in the community as well as in the …show more content…
Students who obtain an education in the least restrictive environment may benefit from being included in a general education classroom setting. Majority of the success of students with intellectual disabilities, stem from the quality of the teaching. The more educated a teacher is on the disability the more value the student will get from their education. My sister in law has been classified as intellectually disabled. Although she does exhibit behaviors similar to a child in the sense that she is cognitively developing at a slower pace, she is able to function in the community. Through the effect of education and good teaching she has gained important self-help skills needed to function beyond the classroom. She travels the train alone to get to and from school as well as participate in her church’s functions. As an educator I would like to conclude with my teaching belief in the value of education. I believe that it is important to provide all children with an enriching environment where they can benefit in all aspects of life. Through these experiences in school the outcome is so rewarding for both the student and the teacher. Ignacio Estrada once said “If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.” All teachers should encompass this