Mastering Skill Building Success: 6 Ways Independent Work Time Empowers Students with Special Needs

Special education classrooms are wonderful spaces that cater to the unique learning needs of students with special needs. We know that students can make incredible progress when provided with the right support and opportunities. Independent work time is an opportunity to  add  different learning components to any students education. Stick around to learn more about six ways independent work time empowers students with special needs and three tips you can use right now.

1. Fosters Self-Reliance 

 

Independent work time is a valuable tool for fostering self-reliance, building executive functioning skills, and promoting autonomy for students with special needs. It provides them with the opportunity to practice essential life skills, such as organization, time management, and task completion, in a structured and supportive environment. The research by Simpson, Myles, and Ganz (2012) shows that independent work time has a positive impact on academic achievement, social interactions, and overall classroom behavior.


2. Supports Needs

 

To ensure successful independent work time, it is important to create an engaging and supportive environment. You can incorporate visual schedules, task lists, and individualized workstations to provide clear expectations. Other sensory supports, such as noise-cancelling headphones or fidget tools, may be called for to accommodate sensory needs. Additionally, implementing assistive technology tools, like speech-to-text software or visual aids, can enhance accessibility and independence (National Center on Accessible Educational Materials, 2020).

3. Differentiates Instruction 

 

Every student is unique, and it is essential to differentiate instruction and materials during independent work time. This involves tailoring activities and assignments to meet individual learning styles, strengths, and areas of growth. Utilizing multi-sensory approaches, hands-on materials, and alternative curriculum helps to accommodate diverse needs (Friend, 2014). Collaborating with other teachers and support staff can provide valuable insights and resources for differentiation.

4. Promotes Independence

 

While promoting independence is the ultimate goal, providing appropriate scaffolding and support is vital during independent work time. We should gradually reduce prompts and assistance as students gain confidence and skill mastery. Implement visual cues, step-by-step guides, or peer mentoring to facilitate task completion (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 2004). Regularly assessing progress and adjusting supports accordingly to ensure continual growth and development.

5. Builds Self-Advocacy 

 

Independent work time is ideal for students to develop self-reflection and self-advocacy skills. It is a time to encourage them to evaluate their work, set goals, and reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement. Mastropieri & Scruggs (2005) state that teaching students to regularly communicate their needs and seek help when necessary will foster independence and resilience. The students in my class are able to select their independent work activity for the day. By empowering students to become active participants in their own education, we lay the foundation for lifelong success.

6. Involves Families

 

How can we involve families? Involving families in the independent work process helps to build continuity and reinforces skill. There should be regular communicate with parents or caregivers about independent work expectations, progress, and strategies. Teachers can share resources, tips, and suggestions for supporting children at home (Sailor, 2019). This collaborative approach with families creates a holistic support system that can enhance student learning and development.

Final Thoughts

 

Are you still with me? Independent work time is a powerful tool for special education teachers. By differentiating instruction and fostering self-reliance, we can create an environment where students with special needs can become empowered. These opportunities can help to build their confidence, and equip them with the skills necessary to succeed academically and in life so they can grow and achieve as unique individuals.


Here Are Three Tips To Keep In Mind:

·     Create individualized task lists or checklists broken down by specific needs or abilities for each of your students that clearly outline what they need to complete during independent work time.

·     Utilize visual supports such as visual schedules and timers for your students to manage their time and to stay on track.

·     Establish a structured work environment that reduces distractions and provides supports to your students like workspaces, noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, visual cues, regular check-ins, breaks, or feedback.