Teaching Philosophy Susan M.

Kane Special Needs Students Require Special Needs Instructors

I believe that every student has unique talents, multiple intelligences, strengths and weaknesses which shape their capacity to learn. To achieve the maximum benefit from an educational system, I believe that students learn best within a creative and supportive community that poses intellectual challenges to them through the interrelationship of academics, art, technology, and personal experiences. Education that actively engages students encourages a greater depth of understanding, interest, cooperation, and achievement. Every student experiences subject matter based on individual comprehension and learned forms of expression. Astute instructors recognize that elementary students are beginning to formulate logical reasoning, constructive thinking, and focusing on multiple concepts simultaneously. Elementary instructors recognize developing critical thinking and problemsolving skills as well as a childs growing awareness of other perspectives. Secondary instructors acknowledge that students are making choices based on personal preferences and individual learning styles. The more successful secondary instructors are those who know how to listen, strive to understand both group and self-directed learners, and direct the educational potential of multiple intelligences at multiple stages of adolescence. I believe that the role of an instructor is to lead by example. Effective instructors present subject matter in a challenging and stimulating manner with diverse expectations to increase individual student performance. Classroom control is achieved by leaders who are well-prepared with knowledge, directives and alternatives. In addition to classroom necessities, instructors that utilize audiovisual equipment, reference materials, art supplies, musical instruments, and cultural artifacts enhance student comprehension and elicit intellectual discussion. In addition to the educational process, instructors must be aware of their conduct and appearance, use proper diction and manners, be personable and nonjudgmental, recognize and encourage talents, remain current on events, be open to suggestions, and know when to involve administration and parents. All students are special needs students and special needs students require special need instructors. Reaching these students may be accomplished by connecting instructional theories with hands-on applications based on individual talents and needs. This unique and diverse approach to learning ensures that special needs learners, whether they be gifted and talented or developmentally challenged, learners will have a competitive edge for post-secondary education and career opportunities as well as challenges to develop their individual potentials. Special needs instructors must have the character, charisma, culture, cooperation and communication skills to meet special needs and I am confident that I do.