sexual preference, learning styles and language. Inclusion is about acknowledging and
respecting that: • all children have the right to learn • all children are able to learn • all learners need support • all learners are unique and have different, but equally valued, learning needs • all learners need the opportunity to build on their own unique strengths • the learner is the centre of the teaching and learning process • there are differences in learners, for example age, gender, language, culture, learning styles, disabilities, HIV status and so on.
Inclusion is also about: • enabling educational structures, systems and learning methodologies to meet the needs of all learners
• more than just formal schooling – it embraces learning that occurs in the home, community and so on
• changing attitudes, behaviour, methodologies and environments to meet the needs of all learners
• ensuring maximum participation of all learners in the culture and curricula of all educational institutions
• identifying and minimising barriers to learning that can occur at any level of the system.
Some of the learners in your class may already suffer from exclusion or think negatively about education. There is no reason for their exclusion from class activities. It is the responsibility of the teacher to ensure the inclusion of these learners. This means adapting activities to suit their needs and capabilities. It is equally important
that the class is not divided because of this. Rather, learners with these challenges should be accepted and helped where possible by their peers. Learners should at all times be discouraged from teasing, bullying or ignoring learners with special needs. When these attitudes are directed towards a learner, they create a barrier to learning in that learner.
Practical guidelines for inclusive teaching
• Have a true understanding of each learner’s background, strengths, unique abilities, needs and barriers. Then use this information to inform your planning and give a clearer focus.
• Remember that the teacher is a facilitator of learning. • Keep the content and material as relevant as possible. • Break down learning into small, manageable and logical steps. Keep instructions clear and short (plan beforehand).
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