Features of an Inclusive Classroom
Two important features of an inclusive school is creating an inclusive ethos and ensuring accountability. Having an inclusive ethos begins with sensitization and building awareness that students have unique needs, both seen and unseen. Its about developing a right attitude and having a built-in desire to want to help all students and the understanding that with the right skills and resources , each teacher can make a tangible and positive difference in each child's life. From this can stem a desire to seek personal and professional development; a desire to truly understand each child that comes before us (home environment, school history, developmental and medical history); a desire to collaborate with others (administration, parent, child, specialized personnel) to provide the best opportunities to enhance student outcomes; and a desire to tailor the physical environment, curriculum, instruction to ensure that the child experiences success throughout the school day.
Ensuring accountability is addressed by firstly establishing standards of expected behavior and ensuring that teachers can explain any such gaps or discrepancies from expected norms in an appropriate manner. Teachers are therefore encouraged to know what the standards are for each class and developmental level. They are expected to tailor instruction to ensure that each child is able to gain knowledge of concepts taught. They are required to collect and document data on student's performance and behavior. They are expected to use mediation strategies to assist pupils who are in need. They are expected to report any highly unusual behaviors/ lack of performance to administration if there is no improvement after a period of time.
