Overview

Inclusive Education (IE) is a new approach towards educating the children with disabilities and learning difficulties with that of normal ones within the same roof It brings all students together in one classroom and community, regardless of their strengths or weaknesses in any area, and seeks to maximize the potential of all students. It is one of the most effective ways in which to promote an inclusive and tolerant society. Inclusive education is not only about education together. It’s a way of life where special needs children learn to grow with developing children. When education is different like studying in special schools, then it translates into the development difference. The developing children fail to understand special needs children and look upon them with a difference. Inclusive education tries to bridge this gap. Through this form of education, the children become more understanding towards each other.

In the longer-term, this brings acceptance of special needs children in the society much simpler. Over the years, the benefits of providing inclusive education to all children have been shown. Inclusive education (when practiced well) is very important because:

• All children can be part of their community and develop a sense of belonging and become better prepared for life in the community as children and adults. 

• It provides better opportunities for learning. Children with varying abilities are often better motivated when they learn in classes surrounded by other children.

• The expectations of all the children are higher. Successful inclusion attempts to develop an individual’s strengths and gifts.

• It allows children to work on individual goals while being with other students their age. 

• It encourages the involvement of parents in the education of their children and the activities of their local schools.

• It fosters a culture of respect and belonging. It also provides the opportunity to learn about and accept individual differences. 

• It provides all children with opportunities to develop friendships with one another. Friendships provide role models and opportunities for growth. 

Inclusive education is not just for some children. Being included is not something that a child must strive for, their participation is not something that must be earned. Inclusive education is a way of thinking about how to be creative to make our schools a place where all children can participate.

Creativity may mean teachers learning to first not brand the children of what they can’t do their disbelief towards a child that he/she is useless but to teach those children in different ways or designing their lessons so that all children can be involved. As a value, inclusive education reflects the expectation that we want all of our children to be appreciated and accepted throughout life. 

Every teacher ought to believe that – Strength lies in differences, not in Similarities!