Mark is a student with autism. Mrs. Tozzi, a fifth grade teacher, is having a conference with his parents. She begins by welcomi
ng them. She asks his parents if he is experiencing problems with his homework and invites them to explain how autism is likely to affect his academic and social skills. Finally, she asks them if Mark is having any other challenges that she may not be aware of. Was Mrs. Tozzi engaging in effective questioning?
Beginning of the conference with a warm welcome is the right attitude of a teacher, especially with parents whose ward is suffering from autism. Direct engagement with a question on academic progress is an appropriate approach to know the behavioural change. Mrs Tozzi is smart to engage Mark's parents in eliciting their opinion on the aftereffect of autism. In a discussion style, she gets to the pitch of the problem since parents spend more time with their kids than the teacher. Hence, their comments on the effect of autism are very relevant for Mrs Tozzi to prepare her future educational plan with Mark. The teacher is even intelligent enough to investigate any other reason that she is not aware of. Her researcher-like exploration shows her commitment and zeal for learning towards a possible solution.
Disparities in health and health care not only affect the groups facing disparities, but also limit overall gains in quality of care and health for the broader population and result in unnecessary costs. Addressing health disparities is increasingly important as the population becomes more diverse.
