1.3 Inclusion in Practice: The CIRCLE Framework

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CIRCLE begins from the stand point that teachers are experts in teaching and that what is required to support inclusion is a framework that allows this expertise to be applied in the most effective way, using a set of general principles.

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Figure 5 Supporting learners

Within the CIRCLE Framework, inclusion is referred to as the extent to which a learner participates in school life, is accepted by their peers and progresses with their learning.

There can be a tendency to focus on how specific physical, sensory or behavioural strengths and support needs can impact on a learner’s ability to be included in school; however, this is usually only a small part of the picture. We know from current research, for example Maciver et al. (2018), that inclusion is influenced by a combination of factors including the physical environment, attitudes, expectations and opportunities, in addition to the learner’s skills and abilities.

Many resources focus on skill development. The CIRCLE Framework, however, introduces the importance of considering inclusion in terms of four factors:

  • The environment (physical and social)

  • Structures and routines

  • Motivation

  • Skills.

The terminology for these four factors comes from the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO), Kielhofner (2008). Further reading is available in the Useful information [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]   section.

The interactive jigsaw diagram in Figure 6 below represents how these factors are interlinked to support inclusion. Hover over each segment of the jigsaw - number 1 displays a definition and number 2 displays an example. Each of the factors within the CIRCLE Framework are described fully in Section 3 with examples to illustrate the concepts.

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Figure 6. CIRCLE Inclusion Factors
Interactive feature not available in single page view (see it in standard view).

1.4 Learners’ thoughts, views and ideas