Michael Friedmann

SPED 898

Dr. Sean Smith

Reflection Artifact SPED 730

 

 

Reflection on Teacher Interview Artifact for SPED 730

 

Identification of the Artifact:

            The artifact for SPED 730 is the Teacher Interview with Ashley Dorr, which served as a key assignment for the course. This interview was conducted as part of my graduate studies in the Master’s in Special Education program at the University of Kansas. As a component of my Masters Project, this artifact contributes to the overall compilation of work demonstrating my development as a special educator.

 

Purpose of the Artifact:

            The primary purpose of this assignment was to engage in a meaningful dialogue with a professional in the field of special education who holds a position that I aspire to or serves as a mentor or inspiration. Specifically, the assignment required selecting and interviewing a teacher, related services provider, or administrator who regularly interacts with individuals with disabilities. Through this interview, I gained firsthand insight into the challenges, strategies, and experiences of a seasoned special education professional working for a non-public agency.

 

Meeting Assignment Requirements:

            The assignment requirements were thoroughly addressed by following the rubric guidelines and completing the expected components. These included formulating thoughtful interview questions, conducting and transcribing the interview, analyzing key themes, and reflecting on the implications for my future practice. By structuring my interview responses according to the rubric criteria, I ensured that all aspects of the assignment were fulfilled effectively.

            Additionally, the organization and presentation of the interview content aligned with the expectations outlined in the course materials. My engagement with the interview process allowed me to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application, further reinforcing my understanding of the field of special education.

 

Decision Not to Revise:

            Upon completing the assignment, I chose not to revise my submission as I was satisfied with the final product. I believe that the interview accurately captured the insights and perspectives of Ashley Dorr, providing a rich and comprehensive look into the realities of working in a non-public agency setting. The assignment met all required objectives, and I felt that it effectively conveyed the intended learning outcomes.

 

Key Learnings from the Assignment:

            Through this interview, I gained valuable insights into the daily responsibilities and challenges faced by special educators working in non-public agency settings. Several key takeaways emerged from the conversation:

 

• The importance of individualized instruction and flexibility in meeting diverse student needs.

 

• Strategies for collaborating with families and related service providers to create effective educational plans.

 

• The significance of advocacy and navigating educational policies to support students with disabilities.

 

• The role of data collection and progress monitoring in guiding instructional decisions.

 

 

            Additionally, the interview highlighted the importance of continuous professional development, as well as the need for resilience and adaptability when working in special education.

 

Contribution to My Development as a Special Educator:

            This assignment has been instrumental in shaping my professional growth as a special educator. The insights gained reinforced my commitment to fostering inclusive educational environments and equipping myself with the skills necessary to advocate for students with disabilities. Moreover, the interview provided a real-world perspective on the application of evidence-based practices and the challenges that professionals face in the field.

 

            By engaging in this reflective process, I have enhanced my ability to critically analyze professional experiences and integrate best practices into my teaching philosophy. This artifact, as part of my Masters Project, represents a crucial milestone in my journey toward becoming an effective and dedicated special education professional.

 

Conclusion:

            The Teacher Interview with Ashley Dorr was a meaningful and enriching component of SPED 730. It provided an opportunity to bridge academic knowledge with practical experiences and reinforced my commitment to serving students with disabilities. This artifact will continue to serve as a valuable reference as I advance in my career, shaping my approach to inclusive education and professional collaboration.