In this week's reading, Hehir emphasizes the different ways in which ableism is present within education, and highlights important steps in preventing schools from limiting the opportunities of those with disabilities. The reading brings up a few main themes regarding ending ableism in education. For example, one idea that Hehir emphasizes is regarding the inclusion of disability as a part of schools' overall diversity efforts. It is crucial that not only are discussions regarding disabilities being held, but they are presented in a natural way and not in a stereotypical or patronizing manner. Similarly to Alan Johnson in one of our first posts, Hehir states how progress first begins with the acknowledgement that ableism exists. Another point that Hehir highlights is to encourage students who are disabled to use the skills and modes of expression that are the most efficient for them. It is not wise to expect every student to perform in the same way, and this includes students with disabilities. Furthermore, the article addresses how emphasis needs to be placed on how education plays a key role in integrating those with disabilities into all aspects of society. Therefore, it is also important to have inclusion within the schools, with accommodations providing the support that will give those with disabilities the opportunities they need to succeed. The final key point that Hehir makes in the reading is that there should be a focus on high standards rather than high stakes. Relying solely on performance from high-stake tests can enforce inequities, and this is true for not just students who are disabled, but for many other students as well.
agreed that students with disabilities should attend the same school as non-disabled pupils, because outside of school or in the real world, they are included everywhere else.
ReplyDeleteHi! I enjoyed reading your blog, as usual! I also wrote about how important it is to hold discussions regarding disabilities, but they need to be presented in a natural way and not in a stereotypical way!
ReplyDeleteHi Olivia! I like how you compared this week's reading with Alan Johnson! I agree that every student has their own way of learning, and I think that each student should have the ability to learn at the speed at which they can succeed the most in.
ReplyDeleteI made made the same connection about Hehir and Alan Johnson!
ReplyDeleteHi Olivia! I enjoyed reading your reflection this week. I like how you bring up the point of disability being integrated into schools' diversity efforts. When people think of diversity, they think of race and socio-economic class. However, disability should be thought of with diversity because disabilities and able-bodiedness is something that comes on a spectrum, and should be included to best serve students.
ReplyDeleteYour post was very insightful!
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