This website is the creation of Joanna, Tracy, Chester and Sarah and was done as the capstone project for the course SPED 924. Special Education in the Regular Classroom is to be completed as part of the requirements of the Master of Education in International Teaching at the University of Framingham. Our lecturer is Dr. Rosanne Majoy.
|
Thank you for choosing to view our web page on Williams Syndrome. I am a High School Language, Literature and Drama teacher and a mom of two handsome boys. I have a great passion for serving others and helping to make our world a better place. As a teacher I sometimes encounter students with special needs but I've never met a child with Williams Syndrome. Naturally, this piqued my curiosity and my journey to discover the Williams kids of this world began. My specific area of research was identifying the characteristics of Williams Syndrome and ways in which teachers could capitalize on their affinity for music to improve their instruction of Williams kids.
Welcome! I do you hope you have discovered lots of helpful information on our website! Using the Classroom Management tips will enable you to focus and capitalize on the strengths of your Williams Syndrome student, facilitating their success in your classroom. I’m Tracy Kaufmann, a Canadian, married with three boys, living in Trinidad & Tobago since 1989. After graduating from the Fine Arts program at York University in Toronto, my husband and I began a screen printing and design business called 'Native Spirit', enjoying creating and producing 'Original Art to Wear' for the export and local market here in Trinidad. Currently I am pursing the Master of Education Degree in International Teaching through Framingham State University in an effort to expand and improve my knowledge of teaching. Three years ago I opened 'Art Studio Saturdays' to children between the ages of 6 and 12 who have an interest in all things ART! Whether we are creating art in the inspiring setting of my garden, visiting art galleries and meeting local artists, or out in the field drawing from observation, each child utilizes this special time to develop their critical thinking skills, master the use of their tools and materials, and use my guidance, support and encouragement to facilitate the expression of their individual ideas and creativity. In an environment of mutual respect and trust, we practice our craft, understanding that ‘mistakes’ are beautiful opportunities that lead to greater knowledge and discovery, and that there is no such thing as ‘perfection’ in art. The key is to facilitate children with or without disabilities projects they are capable of doing, helping to support their effort in order that they can experience the satisfaction of creating it on their own. I absolutely love teaching art to children, and consider it be an honor and privilege to provide an arena that empowers a child's inner voice and builds their self confidence through art appreciation and art making.
|
I am a Physics teacher at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad. In addition to Physics education I am also an astronomy researcher interested in exoplanets. Some of my hobbies include: Zumba with my work mates, Ballroom and Latin dance with my significant other, Field Hockey, Rugby, Yoga, Gardening and promoting Astronomy education with an NGO called the Caribbean Institute of Astronomy (CARINA).
This MEd. capstone project has opened my eyes to the special needs of pupils with Williams Syndrome. Although I may never encounter such a student in my career, there were many techniques which can benefit other students with similar difficulties as well as regular education students in the classroom. |
Last Modified: 30th July 2015