What is a possible term i could use as a solution for the behavioral problems of special children?

Question

i have been thinking about this a lot. its for my thesis topic in interior design of a special school.

i am trying to use a 'homely enrivoment'(example of a term) in the interior space as a sotion to the behaioral problems and needs of mentally retarded children.

through colors, furniture and space planning.

so the topic goes like this.

The application of a homely enviroment as a solution to the behavioral problems and needs of special children through colors, furniture and space planning.

(was actually thinking about changing space planning to materials and finishes)

why homely enviroment?

because i have read in one book saying that educating a mentally retarded is effective on residential schools because you don't really teach them academically but more on teaching them on their daily living skills(bathing,dressing). its like making the school feels like their own houses

my question is:

is there a better term i can use as a solution for their behavioral problem and needs?

Answer 1

As a special education teacher, the word homely environment  sounds more like you are describing a trailer park, not a learning environment. I believe you are trying to say is that a setting that is absent of an institutionalized feel or a non-commercialized setting.  You may also want to use terms such as: a learning environment that creates comfort through a home-type setting.   Don't try to describe this by limiting your word choice.

Also, a big idea in educational psychology is the limited use of environmental print. Too much  visual stimulus (such as posters, bulletin boards, etc) can actually cause more harm than good, especially in children with Autism.  

Anyway...I hope this helps.  Usually better at wording but I haven't had my 3rd cup of coffee yet  :)

Good luck!

Answer 2

first of all-they are people with cognitive disabilities-not mentally retarded

be sure to use people first langauge-

person with special needs

not

special needs person

your homely environment has somethign to do with sensory input-

I woudl use the term 'sensory' in my title

add things liek gentle/tranquil/quiet/calming

gentle effects

sensory haven

quiet corner

Answer 3

Thank you for stating you ate a STUDENT!!! EVERY disability is different! You as a teacher will learn knowledge from your students. HOWEVER... I dont suggest teaching until you actually work exclusively with persons of disabilities! yOU HAVE A GOOD HEART BUT YOUR BIGOTRY IS WELL RECEIVED! All I can say is try if that is really what you want to do. This lifestyle, and it is, is not well paid. Folks tell you how great you are for working with disabled persons. I suggest to do a  sub position or volunteer before you really decide this is for you. It doesn't sound like it. BUT i could be wrong. Thanks for asking and being open minded.

Answer 4

OH there is better terminology! Homely is not the word to use or mentally retarded.

ALSO .... take note of what some of the others say.

1. Your concept statement could be more like: The planned use of a residential environment in educating special needs children can help reduce behavioral issue along with stimulate their overall developmental growth. This can be achieved through color, finishes, furniture and texture.

2. In writing your thesis never quote that you read one book. It show that you did not do an appropriate amount of research on the specific topic. Say something like:

In researching the mentally challenged a residential atmosphere can be effective in their over all development by providing an environment close to one of everyday life.



In space planning you need to remember that all children need space to stimulate all their needs. While it can include life skills don't forget about their physical, emotional or education.

Research some topics like lighting, environment, color and textures and the overall needs of these children ... do you need a space for OT, PT? They will also need a space to stimulate them mentally?

Find some books on Universal Design. I hear a woman by the name of Cynthia Leibrock speak on the topic. While it dealt more with physically challenged it was interesting to know that what you eyes and ears perceive can play tricks on you.

Good Luck