Talking Points IX – Kliewer

This article discusses the dilemma in schools when teaching students with Down syndrome or any other disability that “hinders” intelligence. Schools have stuck to their traditional ways of teaching students, through formulas and linguistics. These types of educational methods do not apply to a set group of people who have a cognitive based problem of developing skills that the educational department might deem as adequately educated so they stick these students into a segregated classroom known as “special Ed”. This placement causes stigmas and separations of students who cannot perform at the level a school department sets which outcasts them from the rest of society and their educational peers. This article deals with trying to find a different way to approach this dilemma, by a focus on individual needs of each specific student and their learning capabilities to best integrate them into a society and educational placing of equality.


The stories and psychological analysis from different people was riveting. Students with disabilities like Down syndrome are able to perform on an educational level that just isn’t what is set as a “norm”. These students’ cognitive processes make them unique and different, not inadequate or “half full”. Schools have to find a better way to approach to teaching these students and set them up for success, not giving them a sense of being different in a bad way in the case where they are separated from peers. It also has to do with an understanding of the disability and patience to attempt new learning techniques to better suite these students.


Vygotsky’s psychological model has always been one of my personal favorites. He understood the importance of mental growth with social interactions and attitudes. More schools need to focus on that aspect and help these students grow at their highest potential. Schools also need to not set a specific level for these students, but to help them achieve a level that they are told by stereotypes that they cannot succeed any higher. This article just shows along with many others that there’s a need for some serious changes in the educational department.