Inclusive Education
Inclusive Education
Introduction
For learners and teachers, classrooms and communities, research shows that
inclusive education works. Small changes can lead to larger transformations, and
these can ripple across the classroom and school system.
This diversity is something all teachers come across. It can present challenges for
teachers, students and their parents. It also creates opportunities for growth and
better connection in personal, social and academic achievement.
Inclusive educators are those who draw on the knowledge and experiences of their
students. They question their own beliefs about student learning. They are flexible
and ready for a challenge. And most of all, they embrace diversity in their
classroom
a) student engagement
b) motivation
c) academic outcomes for all students.
This approach celebrates diversity and difference, and facilitates opportunities for
personalised learning.
When students are given a platform to share their voice, schools gain insider
knowledge and better understand the student experience. It sends a clear message
that student engagement is important.
An inclusive education is one where all students of all capabilities have the
opportunity to grow and learn.
This means providing each student and parent with access to accurate information
on their learning through ongoing formative and summative assessment of each
student’s progress.
Schools can also model positive behaviour and feedback, while still offering areas
of improvement. For example, low reading confidence can be turned around with
sharing positive stories of school success where students have improved or
progressed.
Principle five: inclusive teachers need commitment, knowledge and practical skills
Over time, this approach creates a positive community perception of the school and
raises awareness about a positive school culture.
Principle Five: Inclusive Teachers Need Commitment, Knowledge And
Practical Skills
Good teaching is good teaching for all not just for some. Teaching in inclusive
classrooms requires teachers to have the 3Hs: the heart (commitment), the head
(critical knowledge) and hands (practical strategies).
Teachers must be fully committed to include all learners. They need to understand
inclusive practices benefit all students, regardless if they have additional needs.
Inclusive education also benefits teachers. Strategies are used that make
classrooms more engaging, and it can lead to improved professional satisfaction.
It does not require teachers to become superhuman but it does require them to
know about some of the most powerful evidence-based teaching strategies that
engage learners across the board:
A teacher with the heart, head and hands of an inclusive teacher will be effective
for all learners, not just for those who need additional support.
A teacher with all 3Hs need to be adequately supported by the school leadership
team to use and sustain inclusive practices.
Task
Instructions: do research and get appropriate responses to the three questions
stated below. Send your responses to the email as stated below.
Email: Shisiagodfrey@yahoo.com
1. How can schools and teachers create welcoming and focused environments
that include, motivate and challenge all learners?
2. Do teachers have high expectations of learning, effort and engagement for
all their learners?
3. What has the government of Kenya done to promote inclusive education?