EDUC9406 Differentiation and Inclusive Educational Practices

Contemporary Australian educators are expected to be proficient in assessing, planning for and teaching students with diverse backgrounds and learning needs. They are expected to understand and apply principles of inclusive education at both the classroom level and in broader school policies and practices. In this topic, students will engage with theoretical underpinnings, research-based principles and practical strategies related to differentiation and inclusive practices. Students will have the opportunity for in-depth exploration of topics of interest, such as leadership for effective differentiation, teaching students with disabilities and other special needs, teaching gifted or advanced learners, or working with diverse learners within the International Baccalaureate programme.

This topic aims to:

• Understand inclusion as it relates to multiple levels of education systems
• Develop understanding, knowledge and skills related to differentiating learning experiences for diverse students
• Understand and manage the complexities of flexible, responsive, and inclusive learning environments
• Investigate areas of specific interest related to teaching diverse learners and fostering inclusive educational practices

1. Articulate a rationale for differentiation based on an inclusive philosophy, knowledge of student diversity, and research-informed principles
2. Demonstrate understanding of key principles of differentiation and inclusion and how these may be reflected in a range of educational practices
3. Design differentiated learning experiences suitable for a range of students within diverse classrooms, in the context of one or more curriculum areas
4. Evaluate educational practices in relation to key principles of effective differentiation and inclusion
5. Identify factors likely to facilitate effective differentiation across a range of educational contexts