Ira+Socol

I am a doctoral student here at Michigan State University in Special Education Technology. This is my fourth year teaching this course.

I have never been a classroom Special Education teacher, but I have been a Special Education - and "alternative school" - student, and I have worked extensively over the past two decades in and around schools on issues of inclusion, assistive technology, new educational technologies, and universal design for learning.

My research is focused in three areas: First, integration of contemporary technologies into classrooms in ways which help create effective learning environments for every student. Second, the implementation of "universal design" strategies within public education. And third, the history of technology and education. Along with that I've written a novel, and a short story collection, I've coached a lot of soccer, I love Irish literature, all kinds of films, and all kinds of music. I'm a pretty darn good amateur cook. I am a fan of MSU sports, the New York Mets, the New York Rangers, Arsenal, and Derry City Football Club (not necessarily in that order). I'm a parent. I have a fat cat and an old beagle.

I am also, probably, a "radical thinker." I come out of a European Socialist background. I grew up in New York and was lucky enough to be "saved" by a Neil Postman-designed high school. I've worked in urban architecture and been a New York City police officer. I spent a lot of time working with educators in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Australia. All of this contributes to a sense that our educational system requires radical change.

But none of that means that I expect you to agree with me. Agreement is not the goal at all. We all learn best - in my opinion - when we get to hear a variety of opinions from people with a variety of life experiences.

Primarily, I want us to think and learn together, and to dream together. Sara and I will offer you our experiences and talk about tools and strategies. We will bring you things to read, listen to, and watch. And if you bring what you have to all of us, this will be an exciting semester.

Ira