Topic > And what about Doug? - 744

Classes today are presented to students who have needs arising from cultural or religious beliefs, gender barriers, sexual orientation, age differences, socioeconomic status, talents, disabilities or difficulties (Ashman & Elkins, 2012) . It is important as teachers to be aware of what is involved to ensure we create inclusive classrooms where all students can feel like they belong. Doug is a student with an acquired brain injury which refers to a type of brain damage that occurs after birth. “We use our brain to relate to others and to communicate our needs; and when that connection is severed by a brain injury, life can suddenly seem chaotic and stressful” (Brain Disorders, 2014, p.14). Symptoms of an acquired brain injury can vary from person to person. “It is common for many people with ABI to experience increased fatigue (mental and physical) and a slowdown in the speed at which they can process information, plan and problem solve. They may experience changes in behavior and personality, physical and sensory abilities, thinking and learning" (State Government of Victoria, 2014). In Doug's case, he finds it difficult to concentrate and is easily distracted, often experiences headaches and hurts and suffers from hemiparesis, which is muscle weakness on one side of the body because the connection between the brain muscles is damaged. "We are not experts" is a phrase that might come from a teacher who is not familiar with Doug's condition We expect to hear about any disabilities or difficulties that exist, but it is our responsibility to "ensure that students with disabilities can access and participate in education and training without discrimination. .....wAshman, A. & Elkins, J. (2012). Education for inclusion and diversity. Frenchs Forest, NSW: Pearson Australia Department of Education, Training and Employment. (2014). Professional development: teachers. Retrieved April 26, 2014, from http://education.qld.gov.au/staff/development/employee/teachers/Forman, P. (2011). Inclusion in action. Melbourne, Vic: Cengage Learning AustraliaGroundwater Smith, S., Ewing, R. &Le Cornu, R. (2007). Teaching challenges and dilemmas. South Melbourne, VIC: ThomsonState Government of Victoria. (2014). Acquired brain injury. Retrieved April 20, 2014, from http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Acquired_brain_injury?openQueensland College of Teachers. (2014). Code of Ethics for Teachers in Queensland. Retrieved April 20, 2014, from https://www.qct.edu.au/PDF/PCU/CodeOfEthicsPoster20081215.pdf