What is the special education teacher's primary role on the Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) during evaluations?

• A. Designing appropriate assessments of daily living skills
• B. Analyzing the likelihood of a diagnosable learning disability
• C. Watching for any bias affecting assessment results
• D. Obtaining funding for non-biased measurement resources

Answer: (C)

The primary role of the special education teacher on the Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) during evaluations involves closely monitoring and addressing any potential biases that may affect assessment results. This aspect is crucial because ensuring fairness and accuracy in the evaluation process is fundamental to identifying a student’s needs appropriately. The special education teacher brings expertise in understanding how various biases—whether cultural, linguistic, or related to the assessment tools themselves—might influence outcomes.

By advocating for unbiased assessment approaches, the special education teacher helps ensure that evaluations genuinely reflect a student's capabilities and challenges, rather than being skewed by elements that may not pertain to the student’s actual learning potential. Ultimately, the integrity of the evaluation process is vital for determining appropriate services and supports for students with disabilities.

While designing appropriate assessments or analyzing disabilities is important work, the essence of the special education teacher’s role during evaluations lies in ensuring that the assessment process is equitable and unbiased. This focus underpins the accurate determination of educational needs and the provision of suitable interventions for students.