Question

Often times, the special education teacher and general education teacher have opinions on when a student needs a change in placement, whether it be less restrictive, or more restrictive; however, the student is left out of the dialogue. At what grade/age is it important to bring the student’s insight into the discussion? Why is it important to include the student’s opinion into the
decision?

?

Answer 1

Student's insight should be brought into discussion when the student reaches a mental age of 13 years. This is their beginning of adolescence and hence gradually they should be made part of the decision making process.

It is important to include the student's opinion into the decision because:

1) Adolescents like to take control of their lives and hence knowing about the school's decisions would make them follow the same without hassle.

2) Decision making skill is an important lifeskill required in every step of life. Adolescence is the time to start practicing it so that the students grow up to be independent and confident individuals.

3) Not taking the student's point of view while making decision makes the student low in his/her self esteem.

Also, children who are 12 and below 12 years of mental age should be made part of their decision making meets in a guided way. This is because:

1) It is their age to learn about inter-personal skills and develop closer connections.

2) It gives them a forum to voice up.

3) Students learn this skill of decision making along with communication building.