Module 2: Inclusive Education in Canada

Before this module, my understanding of inclusion meant being respectful of all individuals, no matter the race, the culture, the ability, or the background. I actually did not know the term was more widely term to mean inclusivity in the classroom, specifically all learners including “exceptional learners” in the classroom. I was used to the pull-out model and have seen those with high incidence designations often out of the classroom. I was aware that we as teachers need to work together to promote an inclusive space. I enjoy taking students’ strengths and interests when planning lessons and have given students much choice in how they show their learning; I did not know that this was called Universal Design for Learning.

New Understandings

Inclusive practices-”All students should have equitable access to learning, opportunities for achievement, and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of their educational programs.” Ministry of Education. (2019). Inclusive Education Resources. Retrieved from https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/educationtraining/k-12/teach/teaching-tools/inclusiveeducation
Any child regardless of abilities should have access to quality education
Universal Design for learning- Curriculum for all that takes into account all diverse learner’s background, needs, strengths and interests and has flexibility in terms of learning goals, materials and assessment
Shelley Moore: “Inclusion is Bowling” where we don’t just aim to teach the middle but to aim for all

Implementation