Just as children like to work on collaborative group projects, teachers should attempt to collaborate to develop a supportive environment at school. Some elementary campuses may choose to departmentalize their grade levels to focus on the specific needs of the students and determine if differentiated instruction is needed. Co-teaching between a special education teacher and general education teacher is also beneficial in that it allows the teachers to work together to plan activities and lessons to meet the needs of all the children in the classroom.
Children often learn through various modes, such as visual, auditory or kinesthetic processes. For this reason, incorporating technology in the classroom enhances the learning of every child. Although assistive technology is considered equipment used only for the special education population, all children can benefit from it. The teacher can use educational computer programs to promote reading or mathematics. Inclusive classrooms can also be equipped with a computer and projector to allow the teacher to present lessons via a computer program that can provide visual and auditory stimulation.
In the past, a typical classroom consisted of a teacher lecturing in the front while the students all sat at their desks lined up in neat rows. However, in an inclusive classroom, learning centers are essential. The children can break off into small groups to help them learn to work together, discuss ideas and engage in a variety of sensory experience. When the children enter the teacher-led center, they are provided with more individualized time and attention, and it allows the teacher to determine which students need more intensive instruction or accommodations.
When a child with a disability is placed in an inclusive classroom, the environment can be overwhelming. It is important for the teacher to be aware of this and provide the child with an academically and emotionally supportive environment. It is best to pair the child with peer who is willing and able to help the child. The teacher should also become knowledgeable of the child’s strengths and weaknesses and tailor his level of involvement in the daily lessons based on his abilities.