The Inclusive Classroom

They say that the mark of a good society is how they treat their least fortunate. Disabilities are in fact a normal part of life; there is no normal adult who does or has never had contact with a disability themselves or another person with one. Fortunately, in our society we have developed many tools that are designed to help people with disabilities achieve at their highest potential. These technologies are growing in number and complexity every day. While they might be being used more behind the scenes than anything else, they are everywhere. Increasingly laws have been passed that encourage advancement in such technologies. Laws that require businesses and organizations to offer accessibility to all people, and many times this requirement entails the business or organization to install or purchase equipment or new technology. While it may seem to be an inconvenience to some, providing equal and safe access to all is nothing short of a noble and noteworthy act.
At this point in educational development we are steering towards an individually based learning design. CAST: Universal Design for Learning outlines such an approach. Developing an individualized curriculum for all students certainly seems like a step forward to me. I think the best step in overcoming the stigma of disabilities is to recognize similarities first. All students benefit from something different, not just those with disabilities. Of course, there is the other learning extreme, gifted and talented students. Students who fall into this category also need and benefit from individualized attention including bringing in assistive technology when and where it is relevant, providing more and better suited options for learning. After all the goal is to create a better society thereby encouraging all of its members to achieve their highest potential.
Another interesting aspect of this particular platform is the rapid growth of technology, particularly hi-tech devices available and in use. Interestingly, today’s students are often more technologically savvy than the majority of their teachers. This creates an interesting dilemma for the modern school teacher. Often times the students in the classroom are so familiar with these devices that they use them for numerous hours on a daily basis, both for entertainment and additional responsibilities. As a result, often computers- as well as cell phones- and other equipment, is seen, and used as a learning distraction rather than a tool. While there are some programs available that are specifically geared for students with a wide variety of special needs, the resource that these technologies represent remains relatively untapped in the classroom. Perhaps this is due to the informational generation gap, students being better informed on the matter than their teachers. To bridge the gap is difficult, especially with the label already attached to many of these things as simply a game piece or a distraction. If we want to, as a constantly improving society, overcome any inconveniences associated with technology in the classroom and provide all of out students with the most relevant and knowledge forward education, we will look to include all of these technologies in the classroom. This is ultimately to the benefit of both the student and the teacher.