In this article, we discussed the meaning of special education, benefits, we also talked about the inclusive learning strategies
Definition
Special Education is a form of teaching that is designed to help students with disabilities learn the same skills and information as other children in school. It is also known as special needs education, aided education, alternative provision, exceptional student education, special ed., SDC, and SPED.
Special education can include:
Individualized instruction
Special education is designed to meet the unique needs of each child, which can include physical, behavioral, intellectual, emotional, and social capacities.
Adapted equipment and materials
Special education may use specially trained personnel, equipment, or space.
Accessible settings
Special education instruction can take place in a diversity of settings, such as the classroom, home, hospitals, and institutions.
Inclusive teaching strategies refer to any number of teaching approaches that address the needs of students with a variety of backgrounds, learning modalities, and abilities. These strategies contribute to an overall inclusive learning environment in which all students are valued and able to succeed. Inclusive strategies aim to promote self-reflection and action for change.
Inclusive learning is a teaching and learning approach that aims to create welcoming and accessible educational spaces for all students. It involves:
Appreciating diversity
Recognizing that all students have a right to be included and that they bring unique contributions to the classroom
Removing barriers
Addressing and disregarding negative stereotypes and attitudes, and providing support to students who may have experienced exclusion
Adapting the environment
Modifying teaching approaches and the learning environment to meet the needs and preferences of all students
Challenging students equally
Providing opportunities for all students to learn and participate in a way that is meaningful and relevant to them
Inclusive learning is important because it can help students feel valued, respected, and seen for who they are. It can also help students develop a sense of belonging and empower them to grow into confident individuals.
Some strategies for creating an inclusive learning environment include:
Incorporating diverse perceptions into course content
Ensuring that PowerPoints and lecture examples offer a variety of human examples
Avoiding tokenizing particular individuals or groups
Identifying how systemic inequities and favoritism influence learning
Some strategies include:
Creating a safe space: Inclusive classrooms should be welcoming and psychologically safe.
Differentiating instruction: Instructional approaches should be tailored to the needs of individual students.
Promoting active listening: Students should be encouraged to listen actively.
Encouraging participation: Students should be encouraged to participate.
Working to combat biases: Teachers should actively work to combat biases.
Reviewing Individual Education Plans: Teachers should review Individual Education Plans for students with disabilities.
Collaborating with other teachers: Special education and general education teachers should work together to develop curriculum and create a positive student culture.
Making thoughtful curriculum decisions: Educators should make thoughtful and informed curriculum decisions.
Partnering with families: Educators should work in partnership with families and other professionals.
The benefits of inclusive teaching include:
Instructors can connect and engage with a variety of students.
Students are prepared to encounter and learn from different perceptions and points of view.
Instructors are prepared for “hot moments” that may arise when controversial material is discussed.
Students connect with course materials that are relevant to them.
Students feel comfortable in the classroom environment to voice their ideas/questions.
Students are more likely to be successful through activities that support their learning modalities, abilities, and backgrounds.
Conclusion
Inclusive learning strategies for special education aim to create an environment where students with disabilities can participate in academic and social activities with their peers it makes ways for all the
children, including those with disabilities and speakers of minority languages, have access to learning opportunities.
READ: Promoting Diversity and Teaching Inclusivity