Teach Me: Don't Label Me
Barbara K. Given, Ph.D.
I am not "disabled."
I learn differently.
I am not "handicapped."
I take in and use information that is somewhat unique to me.
Others may see me as handicapped when they insist on teaching me in ways through which I cannot learn or when they insist that I demonstrate my abilities in ways that are comfortable for them but not for me.
It is not I who is out of step, inadequate, handicapped or disabled.
It is the system.
I don't want my teacher to be my pal, but I do want a model and a friend.
I don't want my teacher to make life easy for me, but I do want a teacher filled with a conviction that what he or she teaches is important enough for me to learn and
I do want a teacher who has enthusiasm that encourages me to keep working until I learn.
I don't want to be the teacher's pet, but I do want to be treated as a person worthy of respect in spite of my learning style or because of it.
I don't want a teacher who demands praise, but I do want a teacher who understands my respect even if I show it in an awkward and sometimes hostile way.
I don't want a brain transplant, but
I do want to learn as much as I am able.
I don't want a label, but
I do want an appropriate education.
I don't want to be called "learning disabled," but
I do want to learn.
Teach me.
Don't label me.
Associate Professor Barbara K. Given is coordinator of the Learning Disabilities Teacher Preparation Program and Co-Director of Southeast Learning Styles Center, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030-4444.