Building Inclusive Communities: Exploring the Benefits of Inclusive Classrooms for Students with Autism
Keywords:
Inclusive education, Autism spectrum disorder, Social integration, Academic achievement, Teacher practicesAbstract
This study explores the strengths of inclusive classrooms in supporting the development of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Drawing upon a systematic review of existing literature, the study examines four key findings: social integration and relationship building, reduction in stigma and stereotypes, academic and cognitive benefits, and effective teacher practices and support systems. Through analysis of real-world data from reputable sources, the study elucidates how inclusive classrooms offer students with autism opportunities for social interaction, peer acceptance, and cognitive growth. Furthermore, it highlights the role of educators in fostering inclusive environments through ongoing professional development, collaborative partnerships, and evidence-based interventions. The findings underscore the significant benefits of inclusive education for students with autism, advocating for a holistic approach that prioritizes social integration, academic achievement, and personal growth. Lastly, this study contributes to the growing body of research supporting the efficacy of inclusive classrooms in promoting the well-being and success of students with autism spectrum disorder.
References
th Congress, Senate Bill No. 2026. (2023) An Act Establishing A Center For Autism And For Other Purposes. https://legacy.senate.gov.ph/lis/bill_res.aspx?congress=19&q=SBN-2026
Beghin, H. (2021). The benefits of inclusion for students on the autism spectrum. BU Journal of Graduate Studies in Education, 13(2), 12-16.
Boutot, E. A., & Bryant, D. P. (2005). Social integration of students with autism in inclusive settings. Education and Training in Developmental Disabilities, 14-23.
Campbell, J. M., Ferguson, J. E., Herzinger, C. V., Jackson, J. N., & Marino, C. A. (2004). Combined descriptive and explanatory information improves peers’ perceptions of autism. Research in developmental disabilities, 25(4), 321-339.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder. https://www.cdc.gov/autism/index.html
Connor, D. J., & Cavendish, W. (2018). Sharing power with parents: Improving educational decision making for students with learning disabilities. Learning Disability Quarterly, 41(2), 79-84.
Ge, Z., & Zhang, Y. (2019). Disability status and student outcomes over time in regular classrooms: Evidence from a national panel survey in China. Children and Youth Services Review, 105, 104460.
Groenewald, E., Groenewald, C. A., Cruz, R. A. D., Uy, F., Kilag, O. K., & Villaver Jr, M. (2024). Navigating Educational Leadership: Challenges, Styles, and Impacts–A Systematic Review. International Multidisciplinary Journal of Research for Innovation, Sustainability, and Excellence (IMJRISE), 1(2), 262-267.
Hansen, S. G., Mowbray, M., Raulston, T., Carnett, A., & Tullis, C. (2023). Effects of a Peer-Mediated Joint Attention Intervention in an Inclusive Preschool Setting. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 38(2), 71-79.
Kluth, P. (2010). You're going to love this kid!. Baltimore, MD: Paul H Brooks.
Iovannone, R., Dunlap, G., Huber, H., & Kincaid, D. (2003). Effective educational practices for students with autism spectrum disorders. Focus on autism and other developmental disabilities, 18(3), 150-165.
Lynch, S. L., & Irvine, A. N. (2009). Inclusive education and best practice for children with autism spectrum disorder: An integrated approach. International journal of Inclusive education, 13(8), 845-859.
McNeal Jr, R. B. (2014). Parent Involvement, Academic Achievement and the Role of Student Attitudes and Behaviors as Mediators. Universal Journal of Educational Research, 2(8), 564-576.
Rattaz, C., Loubersac, J., Michelon, C., Picot, M. C., Baghdadli, A., & ELENA study group. (2023). Changes in mothers’ and fathers’ stress level, mental health and coping strategies during the 3 years following ASD diagnosis. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 137, 104497.
Salend, S. J., & Garrick Duhaney, L. M. (1999). The impact of inclusion on students with and without disabilities and their educators. Remedial and special education, 20(2), 114-126.
Shareefa, M., Zin, R. H. A. M., Abdullah, N. Z. M., & Jawawi, R. (2019, December). Differentiated instruction: Definition and challenging factors perceived by teachers. In 3rd International Conference on Special Education (ICSE 2019) (pp. 44-49). Atlantis Press.
Simpson, R. L., de Boer-Ott, S. R., & Smith-Myles, B. (2003). Inclusion of learners with autism spectrum disorders in general education settings. Topics in language disorders, 23(2), 116-133.
Uy, F., Vestal, P., Villaver Jr, M., Andrin, G., Alipin, F. F. P., & Kilag, O. K. (2024). Navigating Diversity: Culturally Responsive Leadership in Diverse Educational Settings. International Multidisciplinary Journal of Research for Innovation, Sustainability, and Excellence (IMJRISE), 1(3), 164-170.