Hello
everyone!
Thank you
all for the many and great contributions in the week 1 forum. The positive comments
and sharing of experiences from participants across the world has provided
insights on what is being done, and what ought to be done in making our schools
as inclusive as possible.
From the
discussions in week 1, the following points came out explicitly:
1.Features of an inclusive school
consist of both the “soft skills” (positive attitudes and behavior) and
provision/re-adapting of resources to suit learners with special needs. The
resources and/or the resource rooms need not be expensive.
2. To create an inclusive ethos and
culture, there is a need to develop positive attitudes in all stakeholders towards
learners with special needs by use of pro-inclusion language when referring to
learners with special needs e.g. using the term “physically challenged” instead
of “physically disabled”; initiating school policies that support all learners;
encouraging peer and other stakeholders support through sharing of information;
recognizing and celebrating achievements by all learners etc.
3. Use of a teaching language different from one
used at home can create a barrier in the children’s learning process leading to
exclusivity.
4. Professional development is vital in
equipping teachers and other stakeholders with knowledge and skills required in
supporting learners with special needs.
Looking
forward to a more exciting learning experience and contributions in week 2.
