Complexities Related to Labeling Children
In order to be eligible for special education services, federal law requires that children be labeled or classified. Florian and McLaughlin state,"Classification is a complex issue involving emotional, political, and ethical considerations in addition to scientific, fiscal, and educational interests" (Heward, 2009, p. 12).
Review the sections of your course text,"Why Do We Label and Classify Exceptional Children" (pp. 12-14) and the special feature, "Current Issue and Future Trends: What's in a Name? The Labels and Language of Special Education" (pp. 14-15). Consider these questions as you read:
· What are the reasons to and benefits of labeling or classifying children?
· What are the drawbacks of labeling?
· Should children ages 0-5 be exempt from labeling? Why or why not?
With these thoughts in mind:
Based on the material that you have read, post your responses to the following questions:
· What makes the practice of labeling children so complicated? Cite references from the text to support your views.
· In your future work with children and families, how can you promote and model the importance of respecting every child as a unique individual?
Read a selection of your colleagues' postings.
Respond to at least two of your colleagues' postings in any of the followingways:
· Build on something your colleague said.
· Explain why and how you see things differently.
· Ask a probing or clarifying question.
· Share an insight from having read your colleague's posting.
· Offer and support an opinion.
· Validate an idea with your own experience.
· Expand on your colleague's posting.
· Ask for evidence that supports the posting.
Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Consider what you have learned and/or any insights you have gained as a result of the comments your colleagues made.