What does 'inclusion' mean in an educational context?

In the context of education, 'inclusion' refers to the practice of educating students with disabilities in regular education classrooms alongside their peers without disabilities. This approach emphasizes the belief that all students, regardless of their individual needs, can learn and participate in the same academic and social environment. Inclusion promotes the idea that students benefit from being part of a diverse classroom, which fosters a sense of community and belonging, while also allowing them access to the same curriculum and resources as their peers.

This method encourages collaboration among educators, support staff, and families to create adaptations and accommodations that enable students with disabilities to thrive in the general education setting. By prioritizing inclusion, schools can help students with disabilities build social skills, engage with their peers, and improve their academic outcomes in a supportive environment.