Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about understanding, connecting with, and supporting every student in their learning journey. My experience with history and special education has profoundly changed my perspective on education and has equipped me to become a more efficient teacher. Through these experiences, I have learned the importance of creating an inclusive environment where all students can thrive regardless of their abilities.
History has always been a subject that fascinated me. It tells the stories of the past, giving context to the present and shaping the future. However, as I began teaching history, I realized that many students struggled to connect with the subject, especially those in the public school system. Some found history boring, while others felt disconnected from the lessons because they couldn't see how it applied to their lives. This experience challenged me to find ways to make history engaging and relevant for all my students, not just those who quickly grasped the material.
As I continued teaching, I became more aware of the diverse needs of my students. Some students had special educational needs, and I noticed that traditional teaching methods did not always work for them. This realization led me to pursue a deeper understanding of special education. Through training and experience, I learned how to adapt my lessons to meet the needs of students with different learning abilities, including those diagnosed with autism, learning disabilities, and other special needs.
Special education taught me that every student learns in their unique way. It helped me understand that it was not enough to present information; I needed to create lessons that were accessible, engaging, and meaningful to all students. This was a turning point in my teaching career. I realized that history, like any subject, could be taught in ways that respect and embrace the differences in my students' learning styles.
One of the most important lessons I learned from special education is the value of individualized support. In a traditional classroom, students are often expected to follow the same pace, but this does not work for everyone. Some students need extra time, resources, or modified lessons to understand the material thoroughly. By implementing strategies such as using visual aids, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and offering one-on-one support when necessary, I was able to help students feel more confident and capable in their learning.
History and special education also taught me the importance of patience and empathy. Students with special needs may require more time to grasp certain concepts, and it is easy to become frustrated if progress is slow. However, I have learned that every small step forward is a victory. By being patient and understanding, I can create a positive learning environment where students feel safe to make mistakes, ask questions, and grow at their own pace.
These experiences have ultimately shaped my perspective on education. I now see education as a tool for inclusion—a way to empower every student to succeed, regardless of their abilities. Creating an inclusive environment means ensuring all students have access to the resources and support needed to succeed. It means recognizing every student's strengths and using them to help them overcome challenges.
In conclusion, my journey through teaching history and special education has made me a more effective and empathetic teacher. It has taught me the importance of inclusivity and adaptability in the classroom. By embracing diverse learning needs and creating an inclusive environment, I can help all students reach their full potential and develop a love for learning.
John Joenel R. Belmonte is Teacher I at Tambo National High School in Parañaque City.
The Teachers' Guide International Magazine, January 31, 2025 (ISSN 2984-9799)