Presume Competence: Teach Beyond Labels

“Teach beyond labels and have high expectations. This is the start to knocking down doors."

Justice Asks Us To Presume Competence

Justice was underestimated in his early years, until he gained access to reliable communication. He types out his thoughts on a keyboard.

His quote is a powerful philosophy for education, especially in the context of neurodiversity.

His words serve as a call to action for educators, parents, and society at large to look beyond superficial labels and to presume competence, recognizing the potential within each student.

Teach Beyond Labels

Labels can often limit perceptions and expectations. When students are categorized solely based on their disabilities or differences, it can overshadow their unique talents and abilities.

Justice emphasizes the need for educators to:

• Recognize Individuality: Each student is a unique individual with their own strengths and interests. Teaching beyond labels means acknowledging these differences and tailoring educational approaches to meet diverse needs. We understand that teachers don't often have the proper training or time to support these individual needs. Finding training programs that support nonspeaking students in a sustainable and accessible way is imperative.

• Encourage Exploration: By moving past labels, educators can create an environment where students feel free to explore their interests and expand their capabilities without the constraints of preconceived notions.

High Expectations as a Catalyst for Growth

Justice advocates for high expectations, which are crucial for fostering a growth mindset in students. Two benefits of a growth mindset include:

• Self-Empowerment: When educators set higher expectations, they empower students to believe in themselves, which can lead to increased motivation and engagement in learning.

• Resilience: Higher expectations encourage students to overcome challenges and develop resilience. When students believe that they can achieve great things, they are more likely to get through difficulties with more ease.

Knocking Down Doors: Breaking Barriers in Education

How can we make a difference by following Justice's advice?

• Create Inclusive Environments: By teaching beyond labels and holding high expectations, educators can help dismantle the current segregated barriers that often exist in traditional educational settings. When we start to see what student's are capable of, it begins to feel more possible to foster inclusive environments where all students can thrive together.

• Advocate for Change: Justice’s message encourages advocacy for systemic change within educational institutions. It calls for policies and practices that support diverse learners and promote equity in education. Start with manageable steps and speak up about what your student's are capable, despite the system's typical focus on deficits.

Conclusion

Justice’s quote serves as a profound reminder that education should be a journey of discovery rather than a process of limitation. By teaching beyond labels and maintaining high expectations, educators can unlock the potential of every student, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. This approach not only benefits students with disabilities but enriches the educational experience for all learners.

Check out Justice's module where he introduces our content about Presuming Competence. All of Communication For Education's modules were reviewed by nonspeaking contributors. We are so thankful for Justice's guidance and support.

Learn More From Justice