According to (Navarro et al., 2016), the purpose of inclusive learning is to ensure that all learners, including those who may have diverse needs, have equal opportunities in accessing and positively experiencing their learning. Therefore, inclusive learning recognizes the diversity of students, which can include their language, ability, etc., and aims at reducing inequalities between learners (Navarro et al., 2016).

When designing our interactive learning resource, my group wanted to ensure that we were creating a class that was inclusive to all students.

For example, we decided that this course would be administered asynchronously online, so that students that have other priorities, such as children, work, looking after parents, etc., were able to access lectures when it was convenient for them to do so. Going along with this theme of flexibility, our assignments have suggested due dates in order for students to be able to work at their own pace and thus, they are enabled to submit work they are proud of and not something they have rushed to finish due to lack of time.

We also wanted to make sure that our class material was easy to understand to students who don’t have English as their first language. This includes offering slides, visuals, videos, and captions so that ELL students can connect words with pictures and vice versa.

After doing some research on inclusive design I realized that inclusivity isn’t just about ensuring that learners of different abilities are provided with the opportunity to be successful in a classroom. It is also about ensuring that the class is a safe and positive environment for all students. Thus, I think one thing we could adjust in our learning resource would be surrounding the topic itself. If I were teaching this class, I think before starting on the lecture component I would want to ensure that I have informed the class that mental health can be a sensitive subject, and in order to be able to create a safe and inclusive environment for all learners, students as well as professors, need to make sure that we are being respectful of the subject matter. Additionally, in order to create an inclusive classroom, students must not only respect the subject matter, but also, be respectful of the differences that each student in the class has, including their race, ethnicity, religion. Diversity is crucial in education as it brings important perspectives and insight into a classroom and discussion that enhances learning opportunities for everyone.  

References:

Navarro, S. B., Zervas, P., Gesa, R. F., & Sampson, D. G. (2016). Developing teachers’ competences for designing inclusive learning experiences. Educational Technology & Society, 19(1), 17-27.