Case Study: Jonathan
Jonathan is a 10-year-old student in a mainstream elementary school diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Specific Learning Disability (SLD) in reading. He struggles to stay focused in class, frequently interrupts others, and demonstrates difficulty in decoding words and understanding written text. Despite receiving support from special education services, Jonathan’s progress remains limited, and his behavior often disrupts the learning environment.
Assignment Tasks:
Etiology and Characteristics of High Incidence Disabilities:
Analyze Jonathan’s diagnoses of ADHD and SLD in reading.
Discuss the etiology and characteristics of these high incidence disabilities.
Explore how these disabilities manifest in Jonathan’s academic and social functioning.
Analysis of Evidence-Based Instructional and Interventional Approaches:
Evaluate evidence-based instructional and intervention strategies for addressing ADHD and SLD in reading.
Propose specific interventions that could support Jonathan’s academic and behavioral needs.
Justify the selection of these interventions based on research and best practices.
Application of Critical Frames/Disability Studies Lens:
Apply a critical disability studies lens to Jonathan’s case.
Challenge deficit-oriented perspectives by examining Jonathan’s abilities, strengths, and potential.
Explore how societal attitudes and systems contribute to Jonathan’s experiences within the education system.
Integrate an analysis of ableism language and attitudes towards Jonathan, both within the school environment and broader society.
Reflection on the “Toleration of Ambiguity” in U.S. Special Education:
Reflect on the current model of special education in the United States.
Discuss the limitations and challenges of the existing model in meeting the diverse needs of students like Jonathan.
Consider the concept of “toleration of ambiguity” within the current model and its implications for educators.
Propose ways in which a re-imagined model, informed by critical disability studies practices, could better serve students with disabilities.
Reflect on how adopting a critically informed perspective aligns with the professional disposition of a special education teacher.
Submission Guidelines:
Your assignment should be 6-10 pages in length, excluding references.
Utilize scholarly literature, research studies, and reputable sources to support your analysis and recommendations.
Ensure your writing is well-structured, organized, and free of grammatical errors.
