Instructors and Participants left, backrow, Jennie Maschek, Debbie Chapus, Abigail Chappell, Melissa Klocke, Melinda Kirsch; Robin Bull, Kristen Anson, Beckey Panagos, D.J. Butcher; front left Ann Straw, Jennifer Westbrook, Amanda Gibson, Darla Wells, Debra Nadeu, Dr. Bess Dennison
Last week, I had the privilege of meeting dedicated pre-12 grade teachers who work with children who have visual impairments. We studied under Dr. Bess Dennison, from Utah State and Ann Straw, Co-Instructor. Thanks to a grant coordinated by Missouri School for the Blind Outreach Services Coordinator, we learned, discussed, and were exposed to important skills such as making adaptations to pre-school activities of circle time, snack time, playing games, teaching emergent literacy, math activities, using a Braille Writer and performing functional vision assessments. Homework includes practicum experiences and readings (we left with literally thousands of pages and two notebooks of materials). In March we meet for three days to conclude the workshop. A very special thank you to Dr. Dennison for the beautiful hand-made bookmark!
About rpan52
As a teaching professor who does research, I have an amazing opportunity to observe the work of early intervention professionals coaching families of young children making my textbooks come alive. My students are the beneficiaries even though they may not be by my side. For exemplary teaching at the university level to transpire, research and teaching cannot be separated. Professors involved in research witness this transformation in process and pass on to the classrooms of today and tomorrow. Contextual teaching, membership in professional organizations, and attending and presenting at national conferences allow me to pass the latest evidence-based interventions to my students.
I want to create more opportunities for interaction.
Prior to teaching at Lindenwood University, I worked for Special School District of St. Louis County with children of all abilities and their families for 20 years, and led professional development for 2500 special education teachers while earning my doctorate in Special Education at University of Missouri. I continue teaching online undergraduate and graduate special education methods courses. My research interest includes field testing The Family Planner as a "Do It Yourself Tool" and Android App.
Early Interventions 