COLLINS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

(JULY 10,17 AND 24, 2020)

Collins Professional Development Program For Teachers - Integrating Children with Learning Disabilities conducted by Ms Shabnam Aggarwal was a three part webinar series held on July 10, 2020,  July 17, 2020 and July 24, 2020 respectively.

Children with Learning Disabilities is still a bit of taboo in the Indian Education System which was evidently highlighted through statistics by the resource person stating the pressing concern and problem at hand.

The first session focused upon identifying various disabilities which are commonly associated with students at different age levels. It is the moral responsibility of every educator to keep a keen eye on its learners about their overall growth and development. Instead of scolding and ridiculing students, emotional connect must be established to understand the students better. Ailments like autism, ADSD, dyslexia, writing disorders, speech disorders, behavioural issues and so on, were addressed at length.

The second session was a recap of the first one, followed by a google form for recapitulation. The resource person presented some case studies and how those were tackled with upon confirmation of their respective ailments. A child with a learning diasability is only limited because of that ailment, but should not be made to feel limited in a classroom or school. The teachers must ensure to develop  a bridge and connect between the child and other students.  A teacher in her lack of knowledge must never take a decision and should definitely connect and take guidance from the counsellor. The case studies were helpful in understanding the various approaches that can be taken if faced with a similar situation.

The third session was absolutely insightful as by now teachers were equipped with the knowledge of students with learning disabilities and were in a position to understand classroom approach towards such students. They should be included and excludes without creating a divide. For such practices, visually comfortable modules, self paced learning modules, one-on one focus, encouragement to participate in class, digital tools, individual long term projects can be assigned so that they stay constructively engaged.

The three webinars helped in enriching the outlook and approach to be taken for such students in the classroom.