reflection # 10

Professor Adair said in her third grade class a few months ago, fairness and being right is not the same.  She explained her kids are always saying "That's not fair" but it is what people need.  That is a huge statement, the traditional statement of fairness is everyone being treated equally, however this new definition is giving everyone what they need instead.
A teacher on the panel we had a few weeks back in class described the discussion she had with her class, she asked if one girl needed a shot, would it be equal for everyone to get a shot, yes, but it wouldn't be fair, because not everyone needs a shot.
In my Special Needs class at NU, there was a definition that was on a handout, fairness is giving people what they need.  And he described it as students who have learning disabilities NEED different things that normal students. Teachers say "that's not fair" to give little Billy a copy of the assignment on the board because he can't see, while the other students have to look off the board.  But it is what little Billy needs.  If someone had a heart attack, we wouldn't say, well since not everyone can get revived using the defibrillator, then we shouldn't use it on that person who's dying.
This makes me think of all the resources teachers can use with technology, especially for those students with learning disabilities.  Students who have a hard time understanding math, or English, can use computers and play an educational program that is geared to tutor and help the struggling students master their disability.  Or using graphics to illustrate something, or sounds. Using innovative and different ways to teach conventional ideas and concepts.

Small groups would also be a good idea.  Having the students pair off into groups according to skill level and providing various "stations" or activities for the students to do while the teacher meets with a small group and teaches to their learning level.