Episode 13: Advantages of Inclusion (Part 2)

Inclusion with Mansi

In the last episode we discussed advantages of inclusion for the neurodiverse students. Today we shall continue this discussion and explore advantages for neurotypical students.

Welcome to part 2 of Advantages of inclusion. As you are aware, research conducted in inclusive classrooms shows that there are benefits to both neurotypical students (those are students without disabilities) and neurodiverse students (students with disabilities or special learning needs).

I ended the previous episode with some food for thought for you:

Do you think that neurotypical students or students without any disabilities would benefit from inclusion? Are you aware of any advantages for them?

Yes, they certainly do. Today we shall discuss some of the advantages for the students without disabilities or neurotypical students.

1. Inclusive classrooms are filled with diverse learners, each of whom has strengths and challenges. Inclusion gives kids a way to talk about how everyone learns in their own way. They may find that they have more in common with other kids than they thought. This can go a long way in helping kids know that difference is just a normal part of life. It can also help kids build and maintain friendships.
2. As we has discussed in the previous episode, with differentiated instruction in the classroom, all students needs are better met, greater resources for everyone
3. Empathy is learned from being exposed to those who are different from you.
4. It fosters a culture of respect and belonging. It also provides the opportunity to learn about and accept individual differences. Respect for all people
5. Students enhance their emotional quotient as they develop patience, tolerance and compassion for their peers.
6. When children are involved in helping their peers they not only derive immense satisfaction out of it but often strike lifelong friendships with them.
7. Opportunities to master activities by practicing and teaching others. When we were younger and helped another student who couldn’t do what we could do or couldn’t understand what we understood, it changed us. It gave us a sense of accomplishment along with a sense of hope. It made us better people. It makes students better people.
8. Children learn teamwork and collaboration in inclusive schools.
9. Inclusion prepares all students for adult life in an inclusive society. We live in a fairly inclusive society where most of the services are for everyone equally. Now some may not be able to access certain spaces but that is a whole different conversation.
10. India is a cultural mosaic that strives for unity in diversity and an inclusive school provides opportunities for playing together, learning together, being together and growing together with diverse communities.

To end today’s episode, let’s note that there is NO research that shows any negative effects from inclusion, when done appropriately with the necessary support and services for students to actively participate and achieve IEP goals.

How many of these did you already know? Can you think of any more? Do let me know! I would love to hear from you.