Learning In The Classroom

1. This course has been an enlightening class in my journey in the education department of Rockhurst University. Professor Walter gave so many personal and first hand examples of special education that it allowed me to better understand and prepare for what lies before me. In one of the very first class meetings Professor Walter talked about the importance of doing what is morally right when it comes to teaching. This really made me reflect on my own experience as a student as well as my current role as a gymnastics coach. I have heard many times prior to this course that kids are like sponges and they “soak up” what they see. I noticed one day while coaching one of my current students repeating something I had told her to another child. I …show more content…
Although I enjoyed many of the guest speakers throughout this semester, I particularly enjoyed Dr. Robin Hoggins. Ms. Hoggins, provided our class with an overview of her caseload and the variety of students she helps in special education. The handout she gave us with the varying levels of the students she has is incredible. Knowing each of her students in great detail to hep better their success in education is inspiring. Ms. Hoggins is a firm believer that “What is good for our (special education) kids, is good for all kids.” In fact, Ms. Hoggins said this multiple times throughout her presentation. This was one of the common themes of the class. She also made it a point to say that largest aspect that a general educator can do with students with special needs is to identify the education level and set goals. Once those goals are set hold the students accountable. I also felt that she gave me personally great advice because I do hope to teach at the high school level. She gave the advice to be aware that as students get older and farther through the school system, they may have been broken down or crushed educationally. It is important to keep that in mind and allow each student time to adjust to fully engage in their …show more content…
The Rockhurst Department of Education Conceptual Framework has much in common with the teachings of this course. The first connection comes from the section titled “A Focus on Moral Reflection The first sentence says, “a distinct theme of Jesuit higher education is emphasis on the development of values. One of the main themes of this course has been to look at every student as a unique child and help them to find what defines them as a person. This includes their strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes; “Jesuit higher education embraces the dignity and work of each individual.” (“Conceptual Framework”, 2010, p.1) The Conceptual Framework further states that “Jesuit higher education [values] … the whole person and the promotion of social justice and intellectual freedom.” (“Conceptual Framework”, 2010, p.1) This fundamental concept of Jesuit education aligns with the theme of this course on special education inasmuch as during the course we have discussed almost daily the importance of teaching and advocating to a child’s comprehensive needs which include going beyond textbook content and include addressing the student’s development of values. This is true not only because we are told to do so under legal script [not sure why you’re using the word “script”. But also, because it is the moral and right thing to do. Along the same theme, the Department’s Conceptual Framework goes on to state that we as current and future educators should “promote inquiry into the larger