Tuesday Blog-Day

Last night after putting on a spontaneous presentation for the Art Education students at Western I was reflecting on some of their questions. One question came up: "What happens if the other kids see that I'm accommodating and want to do what that student is doing?" (the example that was brought up was using foam instead of clay for texture reasons) This is a pretty common question. 

So how do you explain to students when you are giving extra options to accommodate some student's needs? I remember one thing from my pre-intern placement in a kindergarten classroom: a big orange poster with bright green letters saying "Fair isn't equal" It was up in the front of the room and a reminder to the teacher, myself, and all the students in the classroom. 

Each student has a different ability or skills level. When one student has a lower level and needs support (or accommodations) it's not fair to give them the same treatment as the student who is strong suited in a certain assignment. If we lived in a messed up world and everyone was the same, then yes, fair would be everyone getting the same treatment support. Because we live in this beautiful world with beautiful different people, we have to realize that fair is not equal. 

Happy accommodating!!