INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Inclusion generally relates to the acceptance and integration of individuals with varying differences, having the participation of all people on all levels of life in a non-discriminatory way. It facilitates the understanding that every single individual deserves the right to engage, realize their full potential, and progress no matter the differences of their abilities or situation.
Inclusion speaks to the principles of justice and fairness, the distribution of opportunities and resources to all people, and the provision of what is needed and just to each of the individuals. For me, fairness does not mean treating everyone equally, but rather according to their individual needs. The reason being is that in reaching a certain goal,everyone of course has varying and different ways of achieving it.
Within the context of education and teaching, the ideology of inclusive education was established. It is a systematic approach to teaching all children, no matter their differences in abilities, backgrounds, or their physical and mental condition. Inclusive education is not placing children in the same classroom but providing adequate and appropriate learning supports to each child based on his/her potential.
The fundamental principle is the illustration of a learning environment that respects and celebrates differences and fosters the idea that everyone has the right to grow together. I once came across a declaration in this context and discussion, the 1994 Salamanca declaration by UNESCO. This emphasizes that all schools must adapt to the needs of every child, regardless of their differences, and that every child should be included.
In Indonesia, inclusive education, as of the early 2000’s, was advanced by government policy advocacy for public schools to accept children with special needs education along with special supported staff, and facilities. Regrettably, it continues to encounter inadequate systems and untrained staff for the support of special needs children. However, the effort for more schools to become inclusive is notable.
Inclusive education for children with special needs is critical, as it affords them the chance to be with their age and peers, and other children, to gain an early understanding of acceptance. Inclusive education is a gateway to understanding differences, but it should not be limited to that. Every child is unique, every child has the ability to grow and develop withfull rights to acceptance. This is the true meaning of justice in education.
By: Nadila Cindy Amelia 24010044129
