“Inclusive education is based on the right of all learners to a quality education that meets basic learning needs and enriches lives. Focusing particularly on vulnerable and marginalized groups, it seeks to develop the full potential of every individual” (UNESCO, 2011). It is sad to discover 75 million children are excluded from education. According to the 2011 Global Monitoring Report, the primary reasons for exclusion are poverty, gender inequity, disability, child labor, speaking a minority language, belonging to an indigenous people, and living a nomadic or rural lifestyle (UNESCO, 2011).
For me, UNESCO has reaffirmed a new perspective during this course: inclusive education is a human rights issue. As early childhood professionals, our challenge is to elevate our leadership and advocacy to promote inclusive and quality education as a human rights issue. To promote inclusion, UNESCO had 10 questions; however, I selected three questions that could be used when discussing inclusion with others. UNESCO provides some thoughts to consider for each question.
1. Beyond the figures, what do we know about the excluded?
Being poor or marginalized are the major causes of exclusion
2. How do curricula need to change to improve learning and encourage the inclusion of all pupils?
Contrary to the traditional approach, curricula can foster tolerance and promote human rights. A culturally responsive curricula can challenge stereotypes.3. Does inclusive quality education lead to more inclusive societies?
In summary, consider discussing inclusive and quality education issues with family, friends, coworkers and politicians. I found 80% of the people I talked to enjoy the conversation and hearing a passionate perspective on inclusion. Even though 20% have been offended. I am comfortable with my track record.
Reference
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization. (2011). Inclusive education. Retrieved from http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/strengthening-education-systems/inclusive-education/
Thanks Joy for the conversation on exlusion and inclusion. As a special needs educator, we work toward all of our kids being placed into an inclusive environment. This usually foster their development quickly through peer engagement and makes others help in the process.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you were able to talk with other about inclusion. It cam be a very touchy topic with certain people. I am hopeful we are raising a generation of children you can be and should be inclusive of all children. Another hope of mine is all teacher are inclusive of all children, regardless of nationality, income and disability.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Joy.
ReplyDeleteI am dissappointed with you that your 'Mother Earth' contact could not get back to you. With summer break and school starting back these teachers are very busy. I hope we can connect with them again.
I also agree that how we treat children is a thermometer for society. Could it follow then, if we can persuade governments to care for their early aged children, their societal rights will also improve.
These are big problems but with many voices speaking and many hands working we will see a change.
Thanks for your comments.
Bobbie