To model and promote an atmosphere of inclusive democracy in my classroom, I set moral rules that promoted inclusion. I made sure to recognize politeness and encouraged kids to be open-minded. I wanted to make sure that every student in the class was polite to each other, and I modelled that every day. I thought it was also important to recognize differences. I included diverse learning materials and activities that every student will be welcome to participate in, with wonderful Educational Assistants. By identifying exceptionalities, students understood each other more, and they built compassion. I didn’t throw “big” words at them, as that can be confusing. From volunteering and having practicums in several classes with exceptional students, I noticed how compassionate other kids are to them. It is essential to teach kids to be kind, polite and open-minded from a young age. I also incorporated different teaching styles that I have and learned to ensure everyone has equal opportunities. With group work and work in pairs, students were communicating and cooperating. For better inclusion, students had to change partners so everyone would work with one another. Everyone had their own opinion, but the class was supposed to be an open-minded space where everyone is welcome.
A few links to start with or refer to:
What is Inclusive Education? – from Inclusive Education Canada
https://inclusiveeducation.ca/about/what-is-ie/
What is Inclusive Education? – From Inclusion BC
https://inclusionbc.org/our-resources/what-is-inclusive-education/
Inclusive Education Resources – BC Ministry of Education
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/teach/teaching-tools/inclusive-education
Special Education Policy Manual PDF – BC Ministry of Education
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/teach/teaching-tools/inclusive-education
Teachers of Inclusive Education (TIE) – British Columbia
http://www.tiebc.com/
SOGI 123 – British Columbia
https://bc.sogieducation.org/