[Inclusive Education in Canada] HOW WE DO SCHOOL B.C Ep1 : Bridging the Special Needs Divide

Summary

This video explores the journey toward inclusive education, comparing experiences in Singapore, Finland, and Canada. The speakers, Jackie and Louie, reflect on their visit to Finland and the importance of integrating children with special needs into general education. They highlight the transition from segregated to inclusive education in Canada, emphasizing the role of families in driving change. The video discusses the challenges and progress made in both countries, and the need to foster a community where all children, regardless of ability, can learn and grow together. Ultimately, it advocates for a future where inclusive education is the norm, benefiting all members of society.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video discusses the journey of inclusive education, focusing on the experiences of Jackie and Louie from Singapore as they explore Finland's approach to inclusive education.
• 😀 Inclusive education is not just a concept but a fundamental idea aimed at integrating children of all backgrounds, including those with special needs, into mainstream education.
• 😀 The school in Canada features an inclusive philosophy where every student, regardless of their abilities, is welcomed and valued within the community.
• 😀 A specific example from the school is a grade six boy with autism who has been integrated into the same classroom since kindergarten, with support from peers and teachers.
• 😀 The Singaporean model of education for children with special needs is different from Canada's, as Singapore has separate schools for children with disabilities, while in Canada, students are integrated into general education settings.
• 😀 In the 1950s, the primary option for education of children with disabilities was institutionalization, but this gradually changed, leading to the closure of special education schools in British Columbia by the early 2000s.
• 😀 The process of deinstitutionalization in Canada, which began in the 1970s and 1980s, was met with resistance but led to a more inclusive model over time.
• 😀 Inclusive education is not just about physical presence but about recognizing the contributions and potential of every community member, fostering a more integrated and less stratified society.
• 😀 The experience of students with autism is shared as being easier to connect with for some, especially for those who are familiar with or open to understanding these differences.
• 😀 The importance of parents advocating for inclusive education and community involvement is emphasized, as it has been a driving force behind the shift from institutionalization to inclusion in both Canada and Singapore.
• 😀 Looking forward, there is a call for further integration of children with additional needs into society, ensuring that both special and mainstream educators work together for the benefit of all students.

Q & A

What was the purpose of the trip to Finland that Jackie and Louie took?

The trip to Finland was to learn about inclusive education and see how Finland incorporates children with special needs into mainstream schools.

How does the school featured in the script promote inclusivity?

The school promotes inclusivity by having assemblies about welcoming everyone, regardless of how they express themselves or look. They emphasize acceptance and integration of all students, including those with disabilities like autism.

What is the significance of the grade six boy mentioned in the script?

The grade six boy with autism has been part of the school since kindergarten. His presence in a mainstream classroom is an example of inclusive education, with peers learning to understand and support his needs.

How does the approach to inclusive education in Singapore differ from that in Finland and Canada?

In Singapore, children with special needs are typically placed in separate schools, not integrated with their typically developing peers. In contrast, Finland and Canada focus on inclusive education, integrating children with disabilities into regular classrooms with necessary support.

What historical context is provided regarding the education of people with disabilities in Canada?

Historically, people with disabilities in Canada were segregated in institutions, like Whittle in the 1950s. Over time, families advocated for inclusion, leading to the deinstitutionalization movement in the 1970s and 1980s, with the last special education schools closing in British Columbia by the early 2000s.

How did the transition from segregation to inclusion face resistance?

The transition to inclusive education faced resistance from both general education schools and segregated special education schools, as it was a significant change. The shift was gradual, starting with those who were open to the idea before closing special education schools completely.

Why is inclusive education seen as important for community building?

Inclusive education is seen as vital for fostering a sense of citizenship and community. It helps prevent a stratified society by ensuring that all individuals, regardless of abilities, are valued and integrated into the community.

What role does friendship play in the experiences of students with autism at the school?

Friendship plays a key role in the social integration of students with autism. One student mentions how they feel it's easier to be friends with someone with autism because they can connect with them, suggesting that familiarity and learning about each other help in forming bonds.

What role did parents play in driving the shift toward inclusive education in Canada?

Parents played a pivotal role in advocating for inclusive education by recognizing the need for alternative services for their children with special needs. Their efforts led to significant policy changes and the eventual closure of special education schools.

What future developments are anticipated in Singapore's approach to inclusive education?

In Singapore, there is an ongoing conversation about how to integrate children and adults with additional needs into society more comprehensively, ensuring that they are not segregated but are an integral part of the community.