Society, years ago, did not devote time to inclusive education. For some people, barriers to learning have been put in place because they did not meet certain parameters. Barriers to learning are anything that hinders learning and equal opportunities in the education system. Inclusive education addresses these barriers to learning so that each person can reach their potential.
To achieve the inclusion of all people regardless of their conditions or special needs, it is important that we all normalise those situations in our daily lives because we have seen how laws, society and the world in general have changed to make the world more accessible and inclusive. People with special needs no longer need to adapt, but rather it is the rest of us who need to adapt to them, treating them as normal.
These are some concepts that are important for understanding inclusive education:
- Intrapersonal awareness is the quality of expressing a true understanding of oneself and having a comprehensive knowledge of one’s feelings and thoughts. Empathy, the ability to recognise the emotions and perspectives of others, is the basis of interpersonal awareness.
- Social skills begin with self-understanding. Intra- and interpersonal awareness is vital for social or emotional learning and is an ability that helps us to get along with others.
- Inclusive pedagogy focuses on the learner, to make the learning environment attractive and engaging for the learners, as in the classroom we will encounter a diversity of people from different backgrounds, learning styles and physical and cognitive abilities.
- Curriculum transformation is about selecting content and teaching it in a way that is relevant to all learners in the classroom.
- An inclusive environment promotes a sense of belonging to the classroom group by establishing a climate of quality, sharing and growth. It also fosters mutual respect, effective relationships, clear communication, explicit understanding, and critical self-reflection.
It is important for teachers to spend time talking with their students, especially students with special needs or learning difficulties. Spending the time necessary to be informed and aware of the issues affecting students can lead to more positive experiences. It is also important to use different teaching techniques, as students may have different learning approaches, and this will help them achieve meaningful learning.
Adult learners have more experience and understanding than children, but at the same time require more contextualisation. Teaching adults should be carried out in a manner appropriate to their experience, background, and age. Linking the teaching of a topic to a real story or experience can help them understand the lessons better. Relying on the use of slides to illustrate a lesson also supports mnemonics. The material should be structured in lessons that progress logically. Allow time to synthesise at the end of each lesson will also ensure everyone is up to date. Highlight the key points of each lesson and provide students with the material before each class so they can review before and after each lesson.
The time is also important. Allow some time for questions at the end of each lesson. This will ensure that no one is left behind. It is very important to correct mistakes or possible misunderstandings.