Effective Classroom: Collaboration Analysis

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There are several key elements of successful collaboration in an inclusive classroom. Collaboration requires that all team members have the desire to work together towards a common goal. It necessitates trust and a sense of shared responsibility and involves mutual respect and understanding. Particularly as schools increase inclusive practices, the working relationships among all the adults involved in the education of students with disabilities become critical. The goal is to share ideas and concerns in order to collectively ensure that these students are reaching their academic potential (Friend & Bursuck, 2009).
While there are challenges to overcome when collaborating in an inclusive classroom, there are also many benefits. One of those
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Planning should be done with support for all students in mind. In my classroom, I provide tier-one instruction to the entire inclusive classroom and utilize instructional support from special education staff to reinforce the objectives being taught. An example of this from my own practice takes place each day in my math class. I teach a math lesson to my entire class (including the special education students). The special education teacher then takes those students and re-teaches the lesson using tools and accommodations from the IEP. Extra time is provided in a small group setting and re-teaching provides extra exposure and support to the special education students. Feedback from parents and other paraprofessionals that work with the students can be received from weekly tracking cards that can record and monitor …show more content…
Having families as active members of the school community includes both benefits and challenges. The benefits include additional support for the student and the ability of families to gain a greater understanding of the expectations and roles of school personnel. One challenge is that families may focus only on the needs of their student without realizing the demands of the teacher in meeting the needs of all students. According to Friend and Bursuck (2009), parents may be able to help you better understand the strengths and needs of their child in your classroom. They also act as advocates for their child, so they can help you ensure that adequate supports are provided for the child’s needs. Family-centered practices are based on the notion that outcomes are best for students when their families’ perspectives are respected, their families’ input is sincerely sought, and school professionals view their job as helping families get the information they need to make the best decisions for their children. It is important to listen carefully to families to identify their concerns and suggestions. Trust is developed when they know that their ideas are recognized and understood.