Learning To Be A Better Teacher
Taking a course to help Special Needs Students
Finding better ways to teach students has always interested me since I started teaching almost 11 years ago. I’ve always wanted to help as much as I can, especially those who are not supported as much as they could be due to their needs, their family, or a lack of a strong teacher.
For the past four weeks, I’ve been taking a course on helping students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) such as dyslexia, ADHD, Autism… I thought I’d learn the secret; the key to helping. I came away with something more important: what I’m doing is right. There is no “special” way, only good instruction with greater intensity for those who need it most. Students with physical limitations need support for those issues, but mentally it’s all about good, engaging instruction.
Good instruction means not relying on a textbook and using task-based lessons with meaning. Connecting students to the story or activity they are doing. Having a focus to the lesson beyond mechanics (spelling and grammar). Building self-esteem for all students. It’s these key elements, as well as the patience and understanding for learners, regardless of age or ability.
My only issue with the course is I wish I had taken the course in August, before the academic year, so I could have used some of the new techniques sooner.