1
, Introduction
Inclusion is about creating equal opportunities for all learners to progress in spite of their
diverse needs. There has always been diversity in the classroom, but in today’s society it is
important to embrace it and make positive use of it.
Question 1
1.1 Explain the meaning of the concept “diversity” with reference to inclusive education.
Diversity in the classroom is a concept that takes varying forms of description. The
starting point in this discussion is to note that no single classroom is composed of a group
of homogeneous learners. The word ‘diversity’ implies the many different characteristics
that make one individual or group of persons different from one another. In South African
schools, learner population is becoming much more diverse because these learners come
from increasingly varied backgrounds and cultures, have different life experiences, and
possess different innate and acquired characteristics (Woolfolk, 2015). These include
behaviour, learning styles, family backgrounds, language and cultural backgrounds, pace
of learning, physical make up, cognitive abilities, race, ethnicity, social competencies, and
attitudes.
1.2 To accommodate the diverse learners in an inclusive teaching and learning
environment, teachers need to understand various principles of inclusive education.
In your own words, explain how you understand each of the following principles of
inclusive education:
1.2.1 It is a human right.
All learners’ differences and abilities to learning and achievements are valued,
respected and celebrated. This certainly means that all learners have their rights to
equality and for education in any institution of learning regardless of their differences.
Inclusive education allow all learners and give them a right to education. It is a basic
human right and foundation for a more just and equal society.
1.2.2 It promotes acceptance of diversity.
It enable people to accept others regardless of who they are, how they are, racially or
according to their abilities. Inclusion education gives every learner a chance to do
according to their ability and achievements. All learners are enabled to fulfil their
potential by taking into account individual requirements and needs. It enriches and
strengthens all communities.
1.2.3 It builds respect for one another.
These values and beliefs will be shared by schools and communities. Inclusive
education is put into practice within school communities that value diversity and
nurture the well-being and quality of learning of each of their members. Inclusive
education is carried out through a range of public and community programs and
services available to all students. Inclusive education is the foundation for ensuring an
inclusive society
2
, Introduction
Inclusion is about creating equal opportunities for all learners to progress in spite of their
diverse needs. There has always been diversity in the classroom, but in today’s society it is
important to embrace it and make positive use of it.
Question 1
1.1 Explain the meaning of the concept “diversity” with reference to inclusive education.
Diversity in the classroom is a concept that takes varying forms of description. The
starting point in this discussion is to note that no single classroom is composed of a group
of homogeneous learners. The word ‘diversity’ implies the many different characteristics
that make one individual or group of persons different from one another. In South African
schools, learner population is becoming much more diverse because these learners come
from increasingly varied backgrounds and cultures, have different life experiences, and
possess different innate and acquired characteristics (Woolfolk, 2015). These include
behaviour, learning styles, family backgrounds, language and cultural backgrounds, pace
of learning, physical make up, cognitive abilities, race, ethnicity, social competencies, and
attitudes.
1.2 To accommodate the diverse learners in an inclusive teaching and learning
environment, teachers need to understand various principles of inclusive education.
In your own words, explain how you understand each of the following principles of
inclusive education:
1.2.1 It is a human right.
All learners’ differences and abilities to learning and achievements are valued,
respected and celebrated. This certainly means that all learners have their rights to
equality and for education in any institution of learning regardless of their differences.
Inclusive education allow all learners and give them a right to education. It is a basic
human right and foundation for a more just and equal society.
1.2.2 It promotes acceptance of diversity.
It enable people to accept others regardless of who they are, how they are, racially or
according to their abilities. Inclusion education gives every learner a chance to do
according to their ability and achievements. All learners are enabled to fulfil their
potential by taking into account individual requirements and needs. It enriches and
strengthens all communities.
1.2.3 It builds respect for one another.
These values and beliefs will be shared by schools and communities. Inclusive
education is put into practice within school communities that value diversity and
nurture the well-being and quality of learning of each of their members. Inclusive
education is carried out through a range of public and community programs and
services available to all students. Inclusive education is the foundation for ensuring an
inclusive society
2
