Double Journal Entry #1

Inclusive Education is a critical component of the overall general education reform. In Inclusive Education, the curriculum meets the needs of all students, including those with special needs. This allows for every student to succeed at their highest functioning level. Inclusion is meant to benefit increasingly diverse students with highly complex learning needs. Inclusive Education is meant to serve various types of students, including; students with varied ethnic, linguistic, socioeconomic and ability components. Some of these students may include a homeless child, a child with a learning disability, or a child with a behavior disorder.

Two characteristics of inclusive schools include displaying a sense of community, and involving parents as partners. If a school displays a strong sense of community, every child will feel respected and comfortable in their school setting. Along with this, inclusion should involve parents to be a part of their child's curriculum. The teacher should work with parents to form problem-solving methods and discuss the child's future goals. In my opinion, working together with parents can only bring more positive feedback into the classroom.

One strategy that may help students become more responsible and effective in the inclusive process is to use the "buddy system." This system includes two children, who may or may not be in the same grade, who have agreed to help each other out when needed. I believe that this strategy is very effective, because on many occasions students would rather talk to their peers instead of a parent or teacher.
Reference for Article:
Inos, R.H. Research Review for Inclusive Practices.  Retrieved 17 Jan 2012.
http://www.prel.org/products/Products/Inclusive-practices.htm

This is a link to a TeacherTube video that is all about inclusion. I feel that this video is a wonderful, positive, and upbeat way to promote inclusion. The video displays artifacts that show that inclusion really does work, and it also includes students and teachers displaying various messages of why inclusion is important.
TeacherTube Video

Reference for Video:
NA. Inclusion Rocks. Retrieved 17 Jan 2012.
http://www.teachertube.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=159535