My Philosophy of Special Education

March 9, 2011

Christine Smith
College of Southern Nevada

MY PHILOSOPHY OF SPECIAL EDUCATION

I believe teaching in general is a progression of both transmission of
knowledge, and construction of knowledge.

Due to elementary age

childrens non extensive [life] experiences to draw upon, I believe learning

will result primarily from knowledge being transmitted to them through
textbooks. Teaching the relation of the subject matter learned in their
textbooks to everyday life is important because without that learning the
relevance it is simply information putting information into practice is true
learning. Because many students receiving special education instruction
lack social skills/knowledge, it is even more important to teach them this
relevance. Answering the questions of who, what, where, when, why, and
how are transmitted primarily through textbooks. While the questions of why
and how can be answered from a more constructive perspective relating
information students are learning to the world around them. Making
education not only about learning information, but how to apply that
information to everyday life is the sign of an effective teacher.
Every students untapped abilities and talents are as unique as a
snowflake, with each having their own specific way or combination of
learning. It will be my task to determine which method or combination of
learning works for each. I believe each student is an individual, and I need to
emphasize their strengths, and minimize their weaknesses. Taking this
approach will result in the student succeeding both academically and

socially. Transferring information and/or subject matter to my students will

be just as important as transferring a sense of self/community. The basic
skills of reading, writing, and arithmetic are the building blocks upon which
more advanced concepts can be explored. The old saying of you have to
know how to walk before you run is a perfect analogy for mastering these
basics. Reading and writing develop the ability to communicate effectively,
and arithmetic develops problem solving skills. I believe the communication
and problem solving abilities learned from these three basics are key in
resolving current issues facing our society and/or environment today.
My special education teaching philosophy primarily focuses on subject
matter, with an awareness of self and society. I believe that each student
has their own God given talent that will allow him/her to make their unique
contribution to society, and its my responsibility to encourage them to
become the best they can be. After all, the future citizens of our community
are cultivated in the classroom.