So, including all students is important if real inclusion is taking place. Inclusion doesn’t just mean being respectful; and polite to every student. Nor does it only mean knowing each student’s name, even though these are important behaviors for teachers to practice.
The inclusion that brings results is when the learning styles and preferences, all literacy skills, all intelligences, and cultural differences or even language differences (If that is present in a class group) are all included in the learning process. Of course, not every learning activity or project or assignment will include every aspect of the list above, however, if the instructional design is flexible enough to provide a variety of options and choices to students within each activity or project, more students will be included. New and newer technology mediation and delivery of instruction also provides incredible and vital processing options for students which help support inclusion.
Coding provides a variation and options for students to utilize many of their skills while developing others. It is language-based; therefore, literacy is being developed; it is logical and system-based; therefore, analytical skills are being developed; it provides opportunity for creative and innovative thinking to be developed. Coding does not have to only be used in computer courses or Math, but it can provide vital learning options and opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning by designing solutions to very real problems, regardless of subject area.
This article states:
True coding education must be fully integrated, cross-discipline and resulting in creatively designed and problem-solving innovations for real world success. This is how we can help transition students from being consumers to being producers and "makers."
Coding is a great way to include students and inclusion is vital for student learning success!
TIP: Plan instruction with enough flexibility to include more students.
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