Classroom Observation Study, Essay Example

After qualitatively observing a classroom consisting of both disabled and non-disabled children also known as an ‘integrated classroom environment’,  I have noticed that the teachers’ were very inclusive of the disabled children whilst supporting their desire to learn and keep up educationally and socially with the non-disabled children. This was accomplished by the two teachers Mr. Tim Allyn and Mrs. Besio addressing the individual questions of each student accordingly in a professional and courteous manner. From observation, it was clear the teachers had much compassion and may have had training with disabled children and integration into a traditional classroom setting. The teachers’ encouraged each and every student that requested assistance with positive feedback by relating to them in a manner that they felt could achieve their homework and classroom assignments with the aid of the teachers and other students within the classroom if they try a little harder. This methodology fostered self-independence and self-esteem. Further it fostered collaboration of social skills amongst the students who helped each other with assignments.  Teachers Tim Allen and Mrs. Besio were very skilled with educating and communicating with all children in the classroom. The students are very assertive whilst asking for assistance and remained very polite throughout the entire observation. This showed recognition of a balance of self-esteem and respect between the teachers and the students which is conducive to a positive learning environment and social development of all children in the classroom.

The teachers’ and students’ regularly went over homework problems and always conducted the communication in a mild tone of voice. Smartboard was utilized to go over the lesson plans and promote a nourishing environment. Computers were available for active reading and math assignments as well as television monitors for current event studies. This was a very proactive environment.

During class discussions we spoke about the benefits of integrating disabled and non-disabled students to show a positive learning environment could be fostered and accomplished with mutual cooperation from the teacher’s and the student’s. We reviewed IEP’s, Inclusions and 504’s to come to this agreement. Old course readings suggest children with learning disabilities could not function in a regular classroom setting. New evidence shows that this can be challenged because it has been proven otherwise in many schools. Integration can be positive for the disabled to challenge their cognitive and social skills to a higher level and can also help the non-disabled children to learn social coping skills. Further disabled children are not dumb for they have much to contribute to any environment. Only, certain adaptations must be made for them to prosper in a regular or traditional classroom setting.

Works Cited

[Interview/Observation of School Classroom Consisting of Disabled and Non-Disabled Children] (2009).