For centuries, sociologists have worked hard to understand the motivations of specific and predetermined groups of people.
Their ideas apply to EVERYTHING!
Fortunately, and unfortunately, depending on which side of the table you’re on within the “special education” world, there are a variety of ways the team participates in the IEP process.
So, you will need to take sides.
Diagnostician. Teacher. Parent. Administrator. Therapist. Interpreter.
Pick one!
As you can see, from a “parent” standpoint, you’re outnumbered.
This is important, because if you want to become an “IEP expert,” there is only one theory that explains your role.
Sociologist, Earl Babbie, wrote about it in his book, “The Basics of Social Research.” For clarity, he reasons that many people might not want to hear or read about a researcher’s findings unless the people know the purpose for the information beforehand.
The same idea applies to your next IEP meeting. The other players need to know exactly what you need or want. Babbie’s old forensic dictum says,
“Tell them what you’re going to tell them; tell them; and tell them what you told them.”
Stick with the facts; tell the team what it is that you feel is important to discuss; tell them about that issue; then tell them what you just told them. It sounds redundant and confusing, but it works.
From a parent standpoint, you must become the researcher and the analyst. You have the duty to bring important information and identify ways in which the data will benefit your child.
This dictum is really just a “team hack.” It is a straightforward way to earn respect and keep the other players in check. There is no significance in adding emotion or verbal fluff to the meeting-keep the emotion out of it.
Think about it.
What are you doing right now to bring your child closer to his or her goals?
Empower yourself. You got this!
The Basics of Social Research 2008(pg. 519)
Photo credit: Consortium of Social Science Association
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