How can we begin to understand inclusivity?
Understanding inclusivity doesn’t have to take the form of grand gestures. It can be small meaningful ones like the Braille inscriptions in trains, wheelchairs in public places, voice transcripts at museums etc. These are just a few examples of what inclusivity looks like. It revolves around the idea that no opportunities are missed out by any individual despite their social background, physical or intellectual challenges.
Just like every other aspect in life, inclusivity in education is also vital and should not be overlooked. It is quite a challenge to inculcate the idea of inclusivity in every stratum of society, since there are generations worth of societal stigma and attitudes. But here, at Glendale Academy, integrating it into early stages of schooling makes it easier to nurture understanding in the young and upcoming generation.
What is Inclusive Education?
Every student spends an average of 7-9 hrs in an educational institution, so it is incredibly important that they feel at home. This is exactly what Inclusive Education does, it creates a learning space that is welcoming to students and makes them feel at ease without being judged.
Here at Glendale Academy, one of the good international schools in Hyderabad, we recognise the importance of inclusive education, a concept that will revolutionise the world of learning. It is an idea that provides equal learning opportunities to students from every sphere of life regardless of their innate abilities, disabilities and their social backgrounds. This concept entails the removal of barriers in the learning environment to fulfil every need of the student. Establishing a space that encourages equal participation, assuring that no student misses out on any opportunity.
What is the most important goal of Inclusive Education?
As a parent or a guardian, have you ever seen your child come back home aloof and disinterested, or express that they do not fit in. Well, this can stem from the fact that their learning environment is not engaging or comfortable for them to thrive in. This is exactly where inclusive education comes into play. It helps set up a safe space for all the students to grow into empathetic and empowered individuals.
This is just a glimpse into its prowess. With the right methods and strategies, it does so much more.
How to promote Inclusive Education in your child?
Now that we have shown you a glimpse of what inclusivity in education involves. Let us tell you how you, as parents, can inculcate it in your child. There are various ways to inculcate inclusive education in the young minds, some of the effective and proven ways are:
1. Encourage mindful and respectful communication
Words are incredibly powerful, the right ones can build bridges to understanding. Since children learn by example, address sensitive concerns like social biases and discrimination with real world examples. This will sensitise them to challenging conversations and encourage them to become more empathetic, learning to appreciate diverse opinions and perspectives.
2. Addressing difficult topics directly
Children are inquisitive by nature and sooner or later there will be questions that broach sensitive topics like stereotypes, discrimination, disabilities etc. Rather than walking in eggshells around these questions, it is important to address them directly in an honest and respectful tone to dispel myths or misconceptions around such issues. This will encourage them to foster a sense of belonging.
3. Encouraging diverse peer-peer interactions
Give your kids a gentle nudge to interact with peers regardless of their physical or intellectual challenges. This will encourage them to view the world as it is unique and one of a kind. As an added bonus, they will learn to appreciate everyone’s unique strengths, nurturing the idea that everyone can contribute regardless of their challenges.
4. Foster empathy and understanding
Teach your kid to view individual differences as a source of diversity. And since every lesson starts at one’s own home, read books, watch movies and narrate stories that are a reflection of the beautiful and diverse cultures. This will create awareness of the rich and diverse communities in the world and encourage them to admire every unique aspect of the world. If you are looking for good schools in Nallagandla, Hyderabad, which welcome students from every sphere of life, look no further than Glendale Academy.
Conclusion
Inclusivity has become a fundamental aspect of our education system. Since its inception, it has been continuously improved to fit current trends. However, it is important to understand that this is not a race but a marathon, so little changes would bring forth different perspectives and establish a sound education system. To illustrate, our Sun City school campus is thoughtfully designed, keeping in mind the various needs of the student and is fully equipped to handle any special request. We also offer innovative teaching methodologies that embrace the capabilities of each and every student. To know more kindly reach out to us through our website.
