Teacher strategies to overcome "learned helplessness"

As educators, we have all encountered a student who may feel like taking an active role in their classroom environment, but sometimes special education students do not have an option because they are non-verbal. We have to do our best to encourage them to speak via their augmentative communication system so they are able to interact with their peers and have an active role in the class. 

Here are some tips for learned helplessness:

• Build daily exception of communication though choosing activities such as picking a book to read, figuring out what they want to do during recess, or letting them choose what to eat for lunch.
• Have a daily report that the student communicates to their parents.
• Allow the student to be a multitude of environments even if they are set up for less support.
• Allow the student to use his or her augmentative communication system when making choices whenever possible.
• Give students powerful phases on their device to protest something.

Assistive Technology in the Classroom Enhancing the School Experience of Students with Disabilities