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Rochelle’s Special Education Tips
Do As I Say, Not As I Do
It is not just the students who pay more attention to their electronic devices than to the speakers during class. This behavior includes some teachers too. It is imperative that with a subject as complex as special education, when training of staff occurs, staff have to focus on the training. The other day, I was one of several speakers at an all-day in-service. Prior to my turn at the lectern, I walked around the back of the school auditorium, enjoying an excellent view of what dozens of staff were doing during a really important information-sharing session. While most were paying attention, at least 1/3 were on Facebook, doing e-mails, and one was even watching a video. When it was my turn to speak, I told the attendees what I had seen and recommended they put away their electronic devices and focus on what I was saying, so they could see less of me in the future. So whether you are conducting county-wide or school-wide training, it is recommended you start the session by directing attendees to put away their electronic devices. People can live without them for an hour. They can consult their devices during breaks.