A few weeks ago I was asked as part of my MA course to make a presentation for my Thesis proposal. I decided to research the topic of Special Education in Ireland. I knew it was a very broad topic, so I had to research it broadly first and then focus on one particular topic. I decided after nights of research that I would focus on IEPs because I knew that I would have to write them for school and I found them very interesting.
After researching Special Education in Ireland, I was surprised to learn at the the lack of IEPs being used in schools due to the lack of legislation in Ireland.
So firstly, some people are probably asking what are IEPs? I wouldn’t blame people for not knowing because before I started working in a special school I must admit that I hadn’t even heard of an IEP. An IEP is an Individual Education Plan that every child that is diagnosed with special educational needs should possess. In Ireland the EPSEN Act advocated the development of IEPs, however this section of the Act has never been fully implemented and there is no obligation upon schools to develop IEPs as of yet. This shocked me….from my research so far, the response to IEPs has been highly positive and successful. Teachers and writers advocate that IEPs are valuable vehicles. However, due to the lack of requirement in schools to implement an IEP opinions and frameworks vary. As teachers, I think we should all be aware of what an IEP is and whether students in mainstream schools possess one. I was only made aware of IEPs because I work in a special school where IEPs are central to their learning. From my experience so far, they really appear to work and help the students to transform socially and academically. Personally, I think teachers need more training in the area of special education needs and how they can cater for them in a mainstream school setting.
I will be revising and creating new IEPs for my students soon so I will keep you updated on how to create an IEP and whether the time consuming process is worthwhile.