i am willing to carryout a pre-test post-test experimental research based on a training programme to enhance the quality of teaching of special educators working in schools for the mentally retarded. i expect valuable suggestions to prepare a good training manual on a suitable area of training. you can suggest me any new area for training, that should reflect on any one of the aspects of life of the school going mentally retarded.
I can give you one the most valuable suggestions you will ever receive, get out of special education.
To use the phrase "mentally retarded" and not understand the bigoted, oppressive, stereotype imagine and how it was used in desegregating special needs children and the phrases painful history for special education is unforgivable, insensitive, and demonstrates your true feelings in regards to my mentally challenged brothers and sisters. Hence you shall receive no other suggestions and quite frankly I could give a damn about what you expect.
Douglas R. Daugherty
Not to pile on, but the term "mentally retarded," though appearing in legislation/research, is no longer appropriate. A more acceptable term is "intellectual disability" (ID). Person-first language, in which the recognition of the individual precedes labels related to the diagnosis, is also preferred. Hence, you are working in schools for children with intellectual disabilities rather than schools for the intellectually disabled.
As for your question, you may need to provide more information regarding your population of interest given (a) international variation in diagnostic criteria for ID and (b) the range of developmental disabilities (e.g., Down Syndrome, autism spectrum disorders) associated with ID. Your dependent variables and treatment will vary based on the specific strengths/needs of your students.
Hope this helps.
I see you may have problems with the translation into English. I am sure you meant no disrespect so I would be happy to suggest an idea. I have seen a lot of missed diagnoses due to the limited criteria used in psychology and education today. Many disabilities share traits and can be over interpreted by novices For instance putting a positive slant or negative slant on an aspect of a child's behavior results in a different diagnosis. Perhaps you could research the terms and procedures used in diagnosis for bias.
Dear Douglas, Seth & Susan
Thanks for your varied reactions from your perspective.
i am very well aware of the painful history of special education particularly intellectual disabilities, and i believe that all the human beings are our brothers and sisters. if my usage of the phrase "mentally retarded" has hurt Douglas then i have to apologize. but the bitter fact is that mere the phrases we use wont help them to live a better life without accepting them. so, i accept them as they are. since the education of special need children has been undergoing evolution, we have to adapt ourselves to the changing atmosphere. i would try to contribute my part for the education of them.
Dear Tamil,
I agree with you quite a bit. I just saw a Ted Talk presenter who made a wonderful case why the label disabled promotes low expectations of people. If you come up with a good idea i would collaborate. Today I accepted a job move to a special education school with varying ages and students in high school. Previously I was teaching high school in an alternative setting where although many students needed the extra they were not identified as such. good luck and be sure and contact me if you come up with something I can help on.
Susan Cox
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