Supports for Inclusivity
There is no one size fits all, or single instructional approach to meet the needs of all learners. Creating a classroom environment that is both supportive and inclusive means that educators take the necessary steps to ensure that all learners can be successful. This requires understanding learners’ specific needs, interests and abilities to plan and create optimal learning opportunities for all learners, not just those in the majority.
Applying elements of differentiated instruction and the principles of universal design for learning provide educators with new ways of exploring their teaching practice in a way that best meets the needs of all learners.
Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash
InclusionBC outlines inclusive education that “welcomes all students into regular classes with same-age peers in their community, with supports or accommodations that ensure equitable opportunities for all learners to learn, contribute and participate in all aspects of school life” (InclusionBC, 2021, Re:What is Inclusive Education?, para, 1).
Learning for All provides a great overview of supports and resources for learners with exceptionalities ranging from instructional planning to peers supports to transition planning.
They outline 6 principles for instructional planning to use when thinking about, choosing and designing learning goals, activities and supportive materials for all types of learners:
- personally meaningful
- age respectful
- promotes autonomy
- social relevant
- opportunities for social interaction
- developmentally appropriate
InclusionBC has a collection of films accessible on their site. This film below entitled, Exercising Self Determination in our Schools is an exceptional example of
Below is an example of a film from www.inclusionbc.org entitled Exercising Self Determination in our Schools. This film is an exceptional example of education in British Columbia has shifted to embrace a competency-based approach to curriculum. All learners have the right to be voice heard and develop a sense of agency and self-determination. This film is one in a series on inclusive education.