What are the benefits of using RTI over Traditional Methods?

I came into this class not having a very clear understanding of what RTI really was. So, everything that I have heard would make me want to be a part of the program! If I were trying to convince a colleague to stray from the traditional method and try this I would bring up valid points listed in this article.  The traditional method states that children would be pulled from the classroom for special educational courses.  These children would be tested using Standardized testing that they may not be able to even understand.  The children would be evaluated differently from their home room teacher and their special education teacher.The special education teacher would then be the sole person in charge of success for the child that is struggling.

With the method of RTI the student would not be pulled away all day from their peers.  They would still be encouraged to maintain and build on social interactions with their classmates.  The curriculum and assessments would be modified so that the student would receive the help that they need and the instruction that would be necessary to make assignments clear.  The student would have a group of people that were constantly concerned about their educational goals.  The teacher and special education coordinator would work hand in hand to make sure that their findings were on the same page.  The entire school would be involved in the success of the student as a whole.

The RTI method showed me that this is a group collaboration and that no one person would ever be alone in this process. It is important that all children's needs are met.  This cannot be done effectively if one person is the only one evaluating the student.  This also cannot be done if the student is being asked to leave their peers, thus creating a social gap between the traditionally learning students and those that are struggling.