This post is a follow-up of what happened of my SEPD501 course.

As I fully prepared, I intendedly participated and spoke several times. I realized that I probably got Professor Scanlon’s pattern. Whenever he started a new disability category, he began with the historical perspective and talked about “something else erudite” as the opening. Then, my classmates participated in the discussion, so the conversations became out of frame. Thus, as a non-native speaker, I felt lost. Later, while Professor Scanlon delivered the lecture by Powerpoint, he likes to ask questions as it goes, so it is difficult for me to digest the content. Imagining that I have to pay attention to the content without any foundational knowledge of special education, taking notes, and answering the questions all at once. It was definitely a tough cookie!

In addition, your suspicion is right. I checked with my friend who majored in special education. She said that your professor has out-dated information. He just wanted you to feel this isn’t an easy course….Also, in the group discussion earlier today, I asked my classmates how they feel about this class.Their response was, “Compared with other classes in which we have a lot of discussion, this class is more strict, teacher-centered, and lecture-based. I need to take lots of notes on the special terms…”  My other classmate said,” You are not alone.” Although I am still worried about the exam and the papers, I felt much relaxed. Honestly, I have to admit that I was in a panic and lost myself.

Just a quick update after my fourth class. During the class time today, we were paired up and put into breakout rooms for special educational strategic practice. Since my partner was driving, she was not able to participate, so she explained the inconvenience and went offline. Then, Professor Scanlon found out that I was along, he practiced the exercise with me. Honestly, I was super nervous, but I kept participating and smiling. At the end of the class, he told me, “Pei-Hsuan, you did great and just right today! Thank you!” I was surprised and hilarious! Now, I feel that I am recovering with confidence.

Thank you for sharing what happened with me. I do pray for you a lot. And I am glad that the whole things work out well and the Prof. eventually got a good impression of you. You do need the catch up with the latest development in the domain so that your knowledge and info will not be old… And I am sure the Prof. will be glad to learn from you as well. Keep going! You will be all right! Do not be panic and do not lose your confidence. You are always great in my eyes and you can do a wonderful job, as I know. 

Keep me informed about your interesting learning experience, all right?

I am lucky to have such a supportive teacher (ps. pay attention to my wording: TEACHER but not professor) who is willing to help me along the way after I graduated for 10+ years from university. I am thankful that we treat each other sincerely and this durable relationship is not just superficial, but I have to admit that this relationship has greatly influenced my own teacher-student relationship. The only difference is my role had been changed from a student to a teacher. I am still who I am. However, I could not become who I am today without this significant intangible help and support.