New Teachers and Special Education Students
Teaching in an Inclusion Class Takes Extra Preparation
Jul 10, 2009
New teachers who are assigned to an inclusion classroom have a steep learning curve ahead of them. Not only does a new teacher have to learn the curriculum, lesson planning and classroom management in an inclusion class; the teacher must also learn about each disability, how to read an IEP and ways to modify lesson plans. Here are some tips for having a successful experience in an inclusion classroom.
Flexibility is Key in Inclusion Classrooms
Flexibility is the most important thing to remember when teaching a group of children with a mix of abilities and learning styles in an inclusion classroom. While flexibility is a given for every teacher, in an inclusion classroom there is even more chance for disruption, and the more flexible the teacher remains, the more calm and learning centered the classroom will remain.
Ways to stay calm during sudden changes in an inclusion classroom:
- Take a deep breath.
- Relax the jaw muscles.
- Act in charge even when things feel out of control.
- Choose battles. There is no need to fight a battle that a teacher cannot win, but it is vital that teachers set limits and boundaries for students.
If the class gets out of control, or is on the brink of losing control due to an interruption of some kind, a quick command for students to put their heads on their desks can help prevent further upset. Additionally, shutting the lights off can have a calming effect on students when things get harried.
Basic Special Education Training for Inclusion Teachers
Having some basic special education training is vital for any new teacher going into an inclusion classroom. If this training is not part of the education that a new teacher received prior to graduation, it is up to the individual to educate him or herself. When assigned to an inclusion classroom, a new teacher needs to get some basic information about the special education demographics in the school. This will be the starting point for additional training and learning over the summer prior to school starting.
Information that a teacher needs to learn about each disability includes:
- The basic characteristics of the disability
- Specific weaknesses as a result of the disability
- Specific strengths related to the disability
- Teaching strategies that are beneficial
Inclusion Classrooms Require Teamwork With a Special Education Teacher
When teaching an inclusion class, the regular education teacher will be working closely with the special education teacher in most situations. This partnership needs to be open and respectful. If it will be expected that the two teachers co-teach the class together, much communication and planning needs to take place so that they work well together for the benefit of the students.
When a new teacher finds out that she will be in charge of an inclusion classroom, there are a few extra steps of preparation that need to take place before the start of the school year. Along with the standard development of a classroom management plan and writing lesson plans, teachers need to learn about the disabilities that will be present in the class and develop a working partnership with the school’s special education teacher.
Find more tips for teaching in an inclusion classroom.
Learn additional tips and tricks for new teachers.
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