This module explores the complexities of inclusive education. It considers the language of inclusion and the challenges of implementing and sustaining educational systems, processes and practices that are truly inclusive. It also examines forms of social and economic exclusion that persist within an inclusion debate and the assumptions that pervade educational practice. Key concepts such as ableism, models of inclusion, equity, difference, exclusion, agency, voice and language will be discussed.

This assessed case study will provide a contextualised educational scenario enabling critical awareness of current aspects of inclusive education. This will enable assumptions and judgements to be challenged and the formation of creative approaches. There is the expectation of a judgement with rationale and the design of a responsive action plan to address aspects of the application of inclusive practice.

Teaching and learning strategies on MA Education programmes are designed to develop personal, intellectual and professional skills. Students will encounter teaching and learning approaches that ensure the development of:



Strategies of communicating clearly

Enhanced independent thinking

Understanding the societal, environmental and global potentials of education

Creative problem solving

Critical thinking



To support this skill development and to ensure that students develop subject knowledge and understanding, subject specific skills and focused transferable skills, a range of teaching and learning strategies will be employed so that critical engagement with aspects of education are developed. These might include:



Individual participant learning activities

Group discussions

Participation in discussion forums

Group work

Peer review

Engagement with course and learning materials

Independent research

Enhancing technological skills



There will also be the opportunity to receive developmental formative feedback and tutor support focused on academic and professional development.



This module will be wide ranging in approach using themes of inclusion related to professional and aspirational educational opportunities and settings.

Demonstrate a critical awareness of current understandings of inclusive education informed by contemporary problems

Analysis


Evaluate complex issues utilising creative approaches when problem solving to make a sound judgement to enhance aspects of inclusivity

Problem solving


Critically reflect on judgements outlining a clear rationale for professional decision-making

Reflection

Dobson, S, Svoen, B, Agrusti, G, & Hardy, P (eds) 2024, Learning Inclusion in a Digital Age : Belonging and Finding a Voice with the Disadvantaged, Springer, Singapore.



Downes, P., Li, G., Praag, L and Lamb, S. (Eds.) The Routledge International Handbook of Equity and Inclusion in Education. Routledge. London.



Graham, L. (2020)¿Inclusive Education for the 21st Century: Theory, Policy and Practice. 1st edition. Milton: Routledge. Available at: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003116073.



Seitz, S., Auer, P. and Bellacicco, R. (Eds.) (2023) International Perspectives on Inclusive Education. Berlin: Budrich.

Unless otherwise stated, all books are available online through Staffordshire University library website and each module has an online reading list accessed through the VLE.¿

Study skills:¿¿There is extensive guidance on academic writing, research skills and working at Master’s level available at¿https://libguides.staffs.ac.uk/study-skills.

VLE Resources¿¿

The University VLE (Blackboard) will enable access to course materials, lecture notes, PowerPoint presentations and reading lists.¿ The VLE offers opportunities to engage in group work and independent learning¿using¿such things as synchronous/asynchronous discussion boards, video links, blogs and wikis.¿¿

Teams

Online learning and associated activities will be through Teams and students will have access to Microsoft Office 365.

This module explores some of the aspects of inclusive education, its guiding philosophy, fundamental concepts, frameworks and practices to examine how education processes and practices can move forward to ensure inclusion is a reality. You will explore theoretical frameworks, consider aspects such as exclusion and discrimination and consider the importance of voice, agency and empowerment.