Educational Inclusion Research Articles

Impact of health insurance education program on health care professional students: An interventional study.

In the complex landscape of health care, the relationship between medical practice and health insurance is increasingly crucial for effective care delivery. This paper emphasises the importance of integrating health insurance education into medical training, focusing on its impact on patient outcomes, health care accessibility, and system sustainability. It posits that health care providers with a comprehensive understanding of health insurance can offer more informed, efficient care by adeptly navigating coverage complexities. The study utilised a pretest-post-test design with a yearlong health insurance education curriculum at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Student participants from various medical programmes self-assessed their knowledge and comfort across 13 health insurance topics before and after the intervention. The curriculum included workshops and a capstone project, emphasising real-life patient insurance challenges. Results show statistically significant improvements in 13 participants' understanding of health insurance concepts, highlighting the curriculum's effectiveness. The findings advocate for the inclusion of health insurance education in medical curricula. Such knowledge is vital in systems with diverse insurance models, like the United States, where understanding insurance intricacies is key to patient care. The study's limitations, such as a small sample size and reliance on self-reported data, suggest the need for further research with more participants and objective measures. In conclusion, incorporating health insurance education into medical training is essential for preparing health care professionals to navigate insurance complexities, make informed treatment decisions, and guide patients effectively. This approach fosters well-rounded professionals capable of managing both medical and financial aspects of patient care, leading to more equitable and efficient health care delivery. Future research should explore the long-term effects of this education on clinical practice and patient outcomes, particularly its impact on health care costs and patient satisfaction.

Challenges and Strategies for Implementing Education Management in the Digital Age: A Review of Curriculum Innovation and Development

The digital age not only transforms the way we learn but also undergoes changes in educational system management. In an environment influenced by globalization and technological advancements, educational institutions must adapt to more adaptive and innovative models. Educational managers must continually update their strategies and practices to remain relevant and effective in delivering quality education. The importance of educational inclusion in the digital era takes center stage. Despite technology opening access to educational resources for many individuals, challenges remain in ensuring equal access for all, including those in remote areas or with special needs. Therefore, educational management in the digital age must consider the need for justice and inclusion in providing educational services. In the context of higher education, universities are also faced with the demand to prepare graduates with skills relevant to the ever-changing job market. The development of relevant curricula, project-based learning, and partnerships with industries become primary focuses. Cybersecurity challenges also take top priority, given the vulnerability of educational institutions to cyberattacks. It is important to acknowledge that implementing educational management in the digital age also involves cultural and mindset changes within educational institutions. Educational leaders must become progressive change agents and be open to innovation. By fostering a culture of collaboration, experimentation, and continuous learning, the educational environment can become dynamic and responsive to present and future challenges.

A Human-Centric Approach towards Equity and Inclusion in AI Education

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become pervasive in modern lives, with AI generative tools driving further transformation. However, a notable issue persists: the underrepresentation of females and individuals from ethnic and racial minorities in the tech industry. Despite generally positive attitudes toward technology among young students, this enthusiasm often does not extend to aspirations for careers in the field. To address this disparity, many schools in the United States are now offering computer science and AI courses at the high school level. Nevertheless, students from underrepresented groups often feel disconnected from these subjects, leading to low enrollment rates. Research underscores that students' career aspirations are solidified between the ages of 10-14 yrs, highlighting the importance of engaging them with computer science and computing skills during this formative period. Leveraging the Bourdieusian concept of social capital, this paper proposes educational interventions tailored for elementary schools. By nurturing students' technical social capital, these interventions aim to foster an inclusive ecosystem from an early age, when aspirations are taking shape. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the accessibility of computer science education and related skills, empowering young students from underrepresented groups to pursue higher studies and careers in computer science and AI fields.

Bridging the Gap: Diversity Initiatives in AI Education

This position paper highlights the critical need to enhance diversity in artificial intelligence (AI) education, focusing on K-8 students. As AI increasingly shapes our societal landscape, ensuring equitable access and participation in AI-related fields is essential. However, the current AI education landscape lacks inclusivity, resulting in underrepresentation and limited opportunities for marginalized groups such as racial and ethnic minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The paper advocates for a comprehensive approach to address diversity gaps in AI education. This involves revising curricula to include diverse perspectives, integrating AI knowledge into core subject areas, and utilizing machine learning (ML) to enhance learning across disciplines. Educators can create inclusive learning environments by incorporating culturally relevant examples and interactive activities showcasing AI's positive impact on diverse communities. Furthermore, promoting diversity in AI education requires investment in teacher training and resources. Educators need support to implement inclusive teaching methods, understand cultural nuances, and address implicit biases. Bridging the digital gap is also crucial, as access to technology and hands-on AI experience ensures equal opportunities for all students regardless of socioeconomic back-ground. By embracing diversity and inclusivity in AI education at the K-8 level, we can cultivate a future generation of AI professionals and informed citizens who leverage technology to address diverse community needs.

Long-term effects of an undergraduate palliative care course: a prospective cohort study in El Salvador

BackgroundInternational organisations recommend the inclusion of palliative care undergraduate education as a way to meet increasing demand; the long-term effects, however, are unknown. Since 2013 the Dr José Matías Delgado...

Facilitating Inclusion for Neurodiverse Students Using Evidence-Based Practices: A Strengths-Based Approach to Sensory Regulation

ABSTRACT Educational inclusion aims to support all students through instructional and contextual designs that promote learning. Educators are assigned the task of teaching an increasingly neurodiverse population with varying neurological processes and perceptions. Traditional school-based settings are designed for individuals with less neurodivergence, and, therefore, may not adequately facilitate an environment supportive of learning for all students. Additionally, neurodiverse learners, including those with autism, may have sensory processing differences that impact occupational participation and performance. Understanding the processing differences of neurodivergent students and interventions that support those needs may facilitate successful inclusion programs. Research and data analysis confirmed the Ready to Learn and Play (RtLP) as an evidence-based framework to facilitate participation and performance for individuals with neurodiversity and sensory processing challenges, both for in-person (statistical significance p = .001) and virtual presentation of the RtLP content (statistical significance p = .00000607). Through a neuroaffirming approach to teaching, coaching, and training, RtLP may assist in supporting individuals with sensory regulation challenges to participate to the greatest extent possible in inclusive education.

Language as a Tool for Inclusive and Equitable School Education: A Critical Review of NEP 2020

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 begins at the very outset by acknowledging education as the fundamental tool for achieving human potential and for achieving economic and social mobility, justice, equality and inclusion. It further recognises the need for education itself to be ‘inclusive and equitable’ for it to be able to become such a tool. The article drawing from socio-cultural learning perspectives examines the language perspective of NEP 2020. The present article aims to examine the commitment of NEP 2020 towards linguistic inclusion and multilingualism in school education by focusing on how the policy appears to understand the significance of languages and the pathway it suggests for the same.

Equity, diversity and inclusion in simulation-based education: constructing a developmental framework for medical educators

BackgroundThemes of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) arise commonly within healthcare simulation. Though faculty development guidance and standards include increasing reference to EDI, information on how faculty might develop in this area is lacking. With increasingly formal expectations being placed on simulation educators to adhere to EDI principles, we require a better understanding of the developmental needs of educators and clear guidance so that teams can work towards these expectations. Our study had two aims: Firstly, to explore the extent to which an existing competency framework for medical teachers to teach ethnic and cultural diversity is relevant for simulation educator competency in EDI, and secondly, informed by the data gathered, to construct a modified competency framework in EDI for simulation educators.MethodsWe engaged our participants (10 simulation faculty) in a 5-month period of enhanced consideration of EDI, using the SIM-EDI tool to support faculty debriefing conversations focussed on EDI within a pre-existing programme of simulation. We interviewed participants individually at two timepoints and analysed transcript data using template analysis. We employed an existing competency framework for medical teachers as the initial coding framework. Competencies were amended for the simulation context, modified based on the data, and new themes were added inductively, to develop a new developmental framework for simulation educators.ResultsInterview data supported the relevance of the existing competency framework to simulation. Modifications made to the framework included the incorporation of two inductively coded themes (‘team reflection on EDI’ and ‘collaboration’), as well as more minor amendments to better suit the healthcare simulation context. The resultant Developmental Framework for Simulation Educators in EDI outlines 10 developmental areas we feel are required to incorporate consideration of EDI into simulation programmes during the design, delivery and debriefing phases. We propose that the framework acts as a basis for simulation faculty development in EDI.ConclusionsSimulation faculty development in EDI is important and increasingly called for by advisory bodies. We present a Developmental Framework for Simulation Educators in EDI informed by qualitative data. We encourage simulation teams to incorporate this framework into faculty development programmes and report on their experiences.

The status of ultrasound imaging education in Doctor of Physical Therapy program curricula: results of a national survey

BackgroundThis investigation evaluated the state of ultrasound imaging (USI) education in entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program curricula in the USA, including faculty perceptions and qualifications regarding USI and identification of potential barriers to inclusion or expansion of USI education. A review of published literature reveals that the inclusion of USI education in entry-level DPT program curricula has not been systematically investigated and is largely unknown.MethodsInvestigators created an online survey developed in QualtricsXM and distributed through email an electronic link to the program chair/director at all 258 accredited entry-level DPT programs in the USA with instructions to complete and or share with faculty.ResultsThe overall response rate was 24% (65/269) and represented 54 programs from 28 of the 50 states; 70% reported including USI education in their program’s curriculum, with 91% spending < 10 h on instruction throughout their curriculum; 44% reported plans to expand USI education in their curriculum, with 85% citing expanding scope of practice and curriculum as primary reasons; 79% cited the lack of qualified instructors, lack of knowledge/training, and equipment cost as the largest barriers to the inclusion of USI education in their program’s curriculum. Whether USI is an entry-level skill was evenly split among respondents.ConclusionsRespondents from a representative sample of entry-level DPT programs across the USA provided survey responses. Despite most respondents being knowledgeable about USI, most do not use this point-of-care imaging modality in clinical practice. Based on the results of this survey, overcoming perceived barriers is necessary to expand USI education in entry-level DPT program curricula, namely, lack of qualified instructors, lack of knowledge/training, and cost of equipment. This national survey provides original data that may stimulate discussion about innovative ways to include USI education in entry-level DPT program curricula to meet the emerging needs of our profession.

International Perspectives on Inclusion in Education: Exploring Common Ground from Different Angles

Inclusion in education is a globally shared principle, and its aim is to guarantee, secure, and promote the equality and equity of all people by removing barriers to learning and social participation [...]

Differentiated Attention: TLK Proposal for the Educational Inclusion of Children with Special Needs

Differentiated Attention: TLK Proposal for the Educational Inclusion of Children with Special Needs

Exploring Alternative Writing Styles: A Journey into Free-Writing and Bilingualism

This digital media composition explores two alternative writing styles: free-writing, a term coined by Peter Elbow, and translanguaging, the practice in which writers incorporate different languages into their writing. This project’s significance lies in helping college writers become more comfortable with the writing process and expressing their ideas more clearly. Doing so will promote inclusivity in bilingual education by creating an environment where students don’t have to limit which language they use for their writing. Traditional writing practices emphasize writing in a structured and formal manner, often discouraging individuals from exploring their thoughts and ideas freely. Additionally, bilingual education often prioritizes one language over the other, neglecting the benefits of incorporating multiple languages into writing. There is a lack of research exploring alternative writing styles, such as free-writing and translanguaging, as well as their potential benefits for college writers; while some research exists, there is a need to explore these topics further and to promote the benefits of incorporating alternative writing styles in education and daily life. This project aims to fill the gap by providing firsthand experiences with free-writing in both creative and academic contexts and exploring the potential benefits of incorporating different languages into writing. Through personal reflections, examples of free-writing in Spanish, and scholarly articles, this project aims to encourage writers to try new writing techniques, promote inclusivity in bilingual education, and bring awareness to the many unique ways of engaging with translanguaging in the classroom.

School social workers’ attitudes to inclusion in regular classrooms in the United Arab Emirates

ABSTRACT The aim of this research is to investigate school social workers’ attitudes to educational inclusion in regular classrooms regarding different variables. Using an attitude scale, we investigated 232 social workers from the UAE regarding age, gender, nationality, type of school, years of experience, and area of residence. Educational placement variables for different disabilities, and school accessibility, were also investigated. Gender, age, school type, and experience did not impact attitudes to inclusion, but nationality, residence, and educational placement did. Social workers reported that UAE schools are inaccessible to students with disabilities. Inclusive education provides better quality education for all and helps change discriminatory attitudes. Schools enable the development of social ties and interactions through a framework for first interactions outside the home. When students with different skills and experiences play and learn together, respect and understanding increase. School social workers can be the key to facilitating this.

Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Equity and Inclusion in Education

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on education. Premised on a narrative and framework for assessing AI identified from a preliminary analysis, the scope of the study was limited to the application and effects of AI in administration, instruction, and learning. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in education, promising to revolutionize traditional teaching and learning methods. One critical aspect of this transformation is AI's potential to enhance equity and inclusion in educational settings. This paper explores the current state, challenges, and opportunities regarding AI's role in promoting equity and inclusion in education. The historical evolution of AI in education is examined, tracing its roots from early intelligent tutoring systems to contemporary adaptive learning platforms and virtual tutoring systems. Advances in machine learning, natural language processing, and data analytics have expanded AI's capabilities, enabling personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs. However, the widespread implementation of AI in education faces several challenges, including concerns about data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the digital divide. It is crucial to address these challenges through responsible and ethical AI deployment, ensuring that AI interventions prioritize equity, inclusivity, and transparency. Further research is needed to explore the effectiveness of AI interventions in different educational contexts and to develop strategies for mitigating potential risks and maximizing benefits. By leveraging AI technologies thoughtfully and ethically, educators and policymakers can work towards building a more equitable and inclusive education system that empowers all learners to reach their full potential.

Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Bridging Gaps in Access and Participation

There is growing recognition of the importance of equity/equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in higher education (HE). Sector-wide there are significant gaps between certain groups of students due to inequalities, and in some cases, these are growing year on year. To tackle these challenges, the HE sector in England is trying to embrace EDI and to widen access and participation through Access and Participation Plans (APPs). This article outlines how one university in England, the University of West London, uses its APP to create opportunities to inspire potential and current students to achieve their goals regardless of their background, identity, and/or lived experiences by ensuring cultural harmony across the student lifecycle where equality and equity co-exists. Through developing its APP in partnership with students, known as Equality Champions, the university seeks assure a diversity of thoughts and voice foster a sense of belonging, promote collaboration and innovation and enhance diverse learning and education.

The Effectiveness of Inclusive Education Policies for Students with Disabilities

Purpose: This study sought to examine the effectiveness of inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the effectiveness of inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. Preliminary empirical review revealed that such policies played a vital role in promoting educational inclusion and academic success within mainstream educational settings. Despite encountering challenges such as inadequate resources and negative attitudes, inclusive education policies showed promise in creating equitable learning environments. The study emphasized the importance of addressing systemic barriers, promoting positive attitudes, and continuously monitoring and adapting policies to meet the evolving needs of students with disabilities. Overall, the findings underscored the potential of inclusive education policies to foster academic achievement and social inclusion for students with disabilities, contributing to a more equitable and supportive educational system. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Model of Disability, Ecological Systems theory and Critical Disability theory may be used to anchor future studies on inclusive education policies for students with disabilities. The study provided provided recommendations that enhanced theoretical frameworks, improved practice, and informed policy in inclusive education. It emphasized the importance of refining theoretical understandings of disability, providing professional development for educators, and developing comprehensive transition services for students with disabilities. Additionally, the study advocated for policy reforms that promote equity and social inclusion, fostered collaboration among stakeholders, and called for increased funding and support for inclusive education initiatives. These recommendations contributed to advancing inclusive education by promoting more responsive, equitable, and supportive educational environments for students with disabilities.

Perceptions of Collaboration between Virtual and Human Teachers in Online Education

This study delves into the perceptions of teachers regarding the collaboration between virtual and human teachers in online education. It is situated within the broader context of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, with a particular focus on Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) and its potential to transform online learning. This study aims to explore the possibilities of Virtual Humans (VH) as humanized Gen AI entities. More specifically, in this presentation, we study the perceptions of online teachers of d-teach online school regarding VH. This study employs a survey that combines the Agent Persona Instrument (API-R) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to measure the participants' perceptions with respect to using a VH as a digital co-teacher. The primary research objective is thus to understand how these stakeholders perceive VH roles and effectiveness in supporting the learning process. Follow up interviews are planned to deepen our insights on how real teachers think about virtual humans as a teacher. Although specific results are pending at this stage, the study promises to provide valuable insights into teachers' perspectives. Beyond the confines of the school, this research has the potential to benefit global education and training by enhancing the quality, efficiency, accessibility, and inclusivity of online education.

Adapted Physical Education Course Content Devoted to Inclusion in Chile: A Content Analysis

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to analyze faculty selections of course content in introductory-adapted physical education courses syllabi pertaining to content on inclusion at three universities in Chile. In this content analysis, course syllabi from three different Chilean physical education teacher education programs were analyzed. From the course syllabi, we analyzed: (a) selected content, (b) disability-specific content, (c) evaluations selected, and (d) bibliographical sources. Overall, the findings of this content analysis reveal several approaches that might influence the professional preparation of future physical educators in teaching students with disabilities in Chilean schools. We concluded the need to increase course content and critical discussions devoted to inclusion in physical education in Chile. Additionally, there is a need to incorporate the views and opinions of persons with disabilities to inform future content that is relevant and appropriate.

HYDRA: A Board Game for Disaster Risk Knowledge, Awareness and Preparedness on Hydrometeorological Hazards

The inclusion of DRR education in the curriculum has been part of the response of the government to the increasing threats of disasters in the Philippines. Yet it was found out that students are still mostly uncertain when a disaster occurs, more specifically on evacuation plans, hazards and disaster-prone areas . This study aimed to develop an instructional material to increase the knowledge, preparedness, and awareness towards hydrometeorological hazards of Grade 11 students in Caloocan City Science High School. The Hydrometeorological Disaster Risk Awareness board game (HYDRA), was first evaluated by seven DRRR experts and Science teachers using the DepEd LRMDS evaluation tool, before it was implemented to the Grade 11 students. Data were collected from 20 participants using a 20-item test questionnaire and a 16-item survey form. The results of the pretests and posttests have shown significant differences with large effect sizes, which implies that the game has significantly increased the students’ disaster risk knowledge (p 0.001; d = 1.5), preparedness (p 0.001; d = 1.92), and awareness (p 0.001; d = 1.96). The game also received an overall evaluation rating of 3.99 out of 4, which means that it met the criteria for an appropriate instructional material. These findings suggest that HYDRA can be used as an alternative educational tool in teaching DRRR.

Patient and Provider Perceptions on the Cultural Inclusiveness of Patient Education for Radiation Related Skin Reactions

Patient and Provider Perceptions on the Cultural Inclusiveness of Patient Education for Radiation Related Skin Reactions