Running head: Philosophy Statement

Philosophy Statement

Colleen M. Hall

University of Kansas
Philosophy Statement
2
Philosophy Statement

Assignment Purpose

This assignment tracks the evolution of my thought process regarding special education.

The main purpose of the assignment is to develop a meaning for entering the field of special

education. This collection of beliefs, purposes, and processes related to special education could

be a stepping stone for employment, conducting a training, or providing my district with a

written statement of the value I could bring to any special education team. In addition to the

philosophical impact this assignment brought out in me it also allowed me to outline the key

factors needed in a successful program.

Focusing on my strengths regarding collaboration, creating differentiated curriculum, and

a willingness to adapt to changes and barriers to learning are key components of this task. The

assignment required me to explain how and why I collaborate and the importance my teamwork

skills could bring to a team. It also gave me the opportunity to explain the importance of

differentiated instruction and my abilities to adapt the curriculum to make it understandable for

all learners. Equally important the assignment provided me the opportunity to reflect on my

ability to adapt which is of tremendous importance when working with many people in order to

give the best support to a student.

Revision

I have made a lot of revisions to my philosophy statement because I felt the original view

was narrow in scope. I also adhered to the advice my professor provided which was to indent my

paragraphs, break up the content, and establish a solid conclusion paragraph. I highlight the

changes my professor asked for but I did not highlight my personal thoughts due to the vast

amount of detail I added.

Philosophy Statement
3
Reflection

The reason for the enormous amount of information I altered in my philosophy statement

stems from the additional knowledge I acquired in this master’s program. In my original

statement I honed in on the importance of collaboration, yes this is an important aspect of special

education but there are also additional topics that merited the same attention. For instance self-

determination, teacher training, and being familiar with processes that are fundamental to the

special education department deserved a mention. The statement I have created expresses my

growth in understanding learners with disabilities and how the special education department

should assist them and their families.