Inclusion is an often-stated aspiration for contemporary schools, leading and developing Inclusive Education in a range of unique contexts poses a complex professional challenge for teachers and school leaders. An informed and nuanced understanding of core concepts, theoretical frameworks and implications of legislation and policy is needed to support decision-making and professional practice that provides genuine and authentic opportunities for all students to learn in a regular school setting. This unit engages students in critical reflection about about inclusion, critical disability perspectives, difference and diversity, and pedagogy and policy to support Inclusive Education. Students will draw on this critical review to define and justify an individual philosophy of Inclusive Education, and to identify and plan for action on strategic priorities to advance the cause of inclusion in school settings.

  • Key concepts of Inclusive Education - issues, evidence and literature 
  • Diversity as a context for inclusion and effective teaching - learning for all
  • Theoretical frameworks for Inclusive Education
  • Policy, politics and legislation - information and analysis
  • Models of inclusive practice - best practice, factors that facilitate inclusive teaching, and barriers
  • The ecology of Inclusive Education

Learning outcomes

  • Critically analyse current Inclusive Education literature and discourses, and the concepts of inclusion and effective teaching for all learners, with a view to advancing authentic educational inclusion in school settings.
  • Critically evaluate the utility of theory, research, and policy, relevant to Inclusive Education.
  • Demonstrate the capacity to critically apply insights to evaluate contemporary professional perspectives, practices, and priorities relevant to Inclusive Education.

Courses

You can study this unit as part of the Master of Education. Please note, unit structure and content are subject to change. Contact your SCU Online student advisor on 1300 863 819 for more information based on your particular circumstances.