This interactive, online discussion will outline the rich evidence-base that has been developed over four decades which indicates that ALL students have improved social and academic outcomes through inclusive education. The literature outlining the benefits of inclusive education for students with and without disability; the long history of research on the negative impacts of segregation of children with disability, and the benefits for teachers and schools will also be discussed. Despite the strong evidence-base for inclusive education, segregated education, in the form of special schools and classes, is on the rise in Australia. The reasons for this paradox will be explored.

Learning Intention:

To understand that inclusive education is a socially just approach to education that has significant benefits for all students and is backed by empirical research.

Success Criteria:

By the end of the webinar participants will be able to:

1. Define 'inclusive education'.

2. State the benefit of inclusive education for students with disability, students who are not disabled and for teachers and schools.

3. State why enrolments in segregated education (special schools, special classes and disability units) have increased in recent years.

Intended Audience:

Anyone interested in inclusion and social justice for students with disability.

Presenter:

Dr Leanne Longfellow is a teacher, academic researcher and a parent of a young adult with disabilities. Her teaching career spans over 30 years and includes special education, early intervention and mainstream contexts. Leanne has provided numerous professional learning sessions for educators and presented at both Australian and international educational conferences.

Participants who choose the option 'E-book & certificate' will receive:

A certificate of attendance referenced to the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers ✳︎
Electronic handouts of the notes and suggested reading.

✳︎ Completing this workshop will contribute one hour of professional learning from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher accreditation.

Testimonials from previous workshops:

'I loved that the topics covered and information expressed was applicable to all students not just those with special needs. It’s a whole class approach too! Very practical!' Nicole Zacher

'I liked the way the professional learning was presented with strategies to support behaviours.' Amelia Pickard

'Clear and to the point. Relatable to school environment. Do-able'. Marie Foreman'

'Full of information and examples, scenarios and ideas to take away. Talk time at the end of the session was good to be able to discuss different strategies'. Leesa

'I liked the examples during the slideshow. Breakdown of behaviour management strategies used now and overtime and how they have/ haven’t worked.' Alison McConachy

'Informative. Practical ideas for students with learning disabilities.' Helen Braley

'The strategies were clearly set out and identified and explained thoroughly.' Emily Shepherd

'This workshop exceeded all my expectations.' Abbie Kemp