8/20/2018
Topic:
Students with Disabilities
Christopher Edwards
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The past 3 years I had the opportunity to teach a student with muscular dystrophy. When he first came to me he was confined to his wheel chair. He had very little mobility and though he wanted to participate, he found it difficult to do so. I made sure that every lesson included aspects that he could fully participate in such as singing, call and response, Kagan questioning strategies (discussion and Q/A). I could tell he really wanted to participate in the movement and instrument playing. So I paired him up with a responsible student who helped him with movement and instrument playing. As the year went on and his work with his OT/PT teacher improved, he became much more independent. Having a student with a physical disability broadened my teaching and lesson planning to become much more inclusive to all students. I found my lessons were able to be accessed by every student and there was much more fun and learning happening during that time! |
8/20/2018
Topic:
Tools and Strategies
Christopher Edwards
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One strategy I like to use in my room is the cooperative learning strategy, specifically Kagan. This allows all students, including those with disabilities to participate in a smaller, more comfortable way. I love using the Time-Pair-Share method because that gives each student the chance to share with just one person and feel a part of the discussion.
Another strategy I like to use is the self-evaluation and reflection strategy. At the end of every class we talk about how we did as a group and individual and how we are going to continue to become better musicians week by week. Since the students are on different skill levels this allows all students, including ones with disabilities to be proud of what they've accomplished and a goal for accomplishing more the next week. |
8/20/2018
Topic:
Assessment of Learning
Christopher Edwards
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I love having my students notate. Sometimes with my students with disabilities, I found that they have a hard time drawing the note. So what I have done in the past is provide a tablet with a notation program such as noteflight and allow the student to touch on the staff where they want the note. I also provided popcycle sticks so they can build the notation in a not so tradition way, and I also provide sheets with velcro that allow the students to velcro the note or rhythm they want in their composition. The student is able to participate and I am also able to assess their skill. |