Training in differentiated pedagogy makes it possible to consider the needs of the child
The implementation of the Back To School and Learning programme allows 40 trainers to benefit from capacity building in the Inclusive Education module guaranteeing better access to education
In the Regional Directorate of National Education in the East of Madagascar, Lova is one of the 40 trainers trained on the Inclusive Education module. Her profile as a trainer at the Regional Centre of the National Institute for Pedagogical Training (CRINFP) in Farafangana since 2020 has led to her being selected to join the pool of primary teacher trainers on various themes, such as Inclusive Education, Education in Emergency Situations, Gender-Based Violence and other Abuse or PsychoSocial Support.
"For several years, children with disabilities or other learning difficulties have not benefited from the same treatment as their other classmates in terms of both access to education and the aspect of the transmission of knowledge. Recently, the training of teachers on the theme of inclusive education, delivered by the supervising Ministry, with UNICEF support, has changed practices so as to implement fairly the principles of equality and equity," she says.
Indeed, in the classrooms, the discouragement of students with disabilities is felt, leading to failure and paving the way for school dropouts. They are often left aside by teachers who do not know how to deal with it and adapt to the situation. The student is on his own and makes an extra effort to look like other students.
The training made it possible to equip teachers in order to put into action the concepts of inclusion, in particular taking into account the different types of illnesses and deficiencies. "From my point of view as a trainer, the point that struck me the most was the differentiated pedagogy. Understanding the principles of equality and equity is one point. Still, it remains insufficient without tools and regular practice which involves adopting the method that favours the child, his needs and his possibilities. Teacher training should lead to a positive change in the organization at school through increasing children with disabilities who enrol there, better understanding and acceptance by classmates, psychological support for parents and changing community perceptions of children with disabilities," she says.
Lova and her peers seemed interested in the training provided as part of the strengthening of deconcentration and regional skills, through a cascade training strategy of the educational chain of the Ministry of National Education. The pedagogical approach was also very appreciated and the trainees asked for more to make room for debates and exchanges.
The training of teachers on the theme of inclusive education, delivered by the supervising Ministry, with UNICEF support, has changed practices so as to implement fairly the principles of equality and equity.
