Inclusion: Stop Talking, Start Doing
Inclusion needs a revolution, and we're lighting the fuse. But before you tune out thinking "Here we go again", we're about to flip the script. We know that SEND (or whatever acronym gets used by each new fad and fancy) provision in pretty much every local authority is at breaking point. Children waiting years for support, caseworkers with 100+ children to manage, exclusions of neurodiverse learners at an all-time high. It's time to look at inclusion through an entirely different lens.
Education is a fundamental right, and it is our moral duty to fight for a place where every individual, regardless of their background or identity, has equitable access to quality education. This means fostering an environment where all students feel valued, respected, and supported. It also means acknowledging and addressing systemic barriers that have historically marginalised certain groups of people.
So we need to think about a school where inclusion isn't a buzzword, a special programme, or an add-on, but as unremarkable as the air we breathe. It probably sounds like a pipe dream. Perhaps. But that's precisely the direction we need to steer towards.
The goal isn't to make inclusion perfect. The goal is to make it unremarkable. To create a world where the idea of 'including' someone is as absurd as the idea of 'excluding' them is now.
So, how do we make inclusion disappear by making it omnipresent?
Ditch the 'Special' Label Every time we label something as 'special' or 'inclusive', we're inadvertently othering it. Instead of 'special needs classrooms', why not just have classrooms that cater to all needs as standard? Let's make adaptability the norm, not the exception.
Rethink Physical Spaces Forget about designated 'accessible' areas. What if every space was designed with universal access in mind from the get-go? Imagine classrooms with flexible furniture that can be easily rearranged for any learning style or physical need. No more 'special' desks at the back - just spaces that work for everyone.
Flip the Script on Teacher Training Instead of having 'inclusion specialists', what if every teacher was trained to work with diverse learners? Let's move beyond awareness to action. Equip all educators with the skills to adapt their teaching on the fly for any learner who walks through their door.
Redefine 'Normal' in the Curriculum Rather than adding token 'diverse' content to our curricula, let's blow up the concept of a standard curriculum altogether. Imagine learning materials that shift and change based on the unique makeup of each class, each year. It's not about ticking boxes, it's about reflecting the changing kaleidoscope of human experience.
Harness AI for Invisible Support Here's where we can really flex our Edufuturist muscles. AI systems that automatically adjust learning materials, pace, and style for each student in real-time. No more obvious 'support' - just seamless, personalised learning for all.
Make Assessment Truly Personal Standardised tests? Bin 'em. What if we had assessment methods as diverse as our students? A system where students can demonstrate their learning in ways that play to their strengths, without labelling some methods as 'accommodations'.
Build Empathy Through Shared Experiences Rather than teaching about diversity, let's create shared experiences that make diversity the norm. Virtual reality could let students experience life from different perspectives. Suddenly, understanding and accommodating differences isn't forced - it's just how things are done.
We can build a future where we don't talk about inclusion because we don't need to - it's just how things are done. Oh and whilst we are at it, our friends at Texthelp are running another Festival of Inclusive Education online on 26th November - click the banner below for more info and to get involved. ⬇️
