A Partnership in Learning

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses partnerships between a teacher and an educational assistant (EA). The paper highlights that the teacher is ultimately responsible for the learning of special needs students; however, the educational assistant is also an important contributor to the delivery of their education. The paper comments on the many factors that make this an effective relationship such as enhancing student learning, achieving student success with the same goal in mind and communication, being flexible, and keeping an open line of communication. Teachers and educational assistants should form the best of partnerships. The paper also notes that teamwork, collaboration and trust, between these two key figures, are also essential.

From the Paper:

"There are many factors that make this an effective relationship. Both teachers and EA's have a set of roles and responsibilities. When both parties complete their roles effectively a positive partnership should develop. "The presence of a paraeducator who provides instructional support to students changes the role of the teacher. Some teachers welcome the changes. They recognize that it would be impossible for special education students to thrive in general education classes without personal assistance. Teachers also recognize that a full caseload of students means that they, working alone, cannot possibly provide an appropriate amount of personal assistance to each student."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Doe, J. Educational Assistant . Interviewed on July 7, 2008.
• French, N. (1999). Teaching Exceptional Children. Paraeducators and teachers: Shifting Roles, (32)2, 69-74
• Weber, K & Bennett, S. (2004). Special Education in Ontario Schools, 5th Edition. Palgrave: Highland Press.
• Eaton, V.(1996). The Educational Assistant and the Teacher: Roles and Responsibilities. (http://www.ualberta.ca/~jpdasddc/incl/roles.htm)

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