Students

EDST8301 – Inclusive and Special Education

2020 – Session 1, Infrequent attendance, North Ryde

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, any references to assessment tasks and on-campus delivery may no longer be up-to-date on this page.

Students should consult iLearn for revised unit information.

Find out more about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and potential impacts on staff and students

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff
Loraine Fordham
Janet Dutton
Credit points Credit points
10
Prerequisites Prerequisites
Admission to MTeach(Prim) or MTeach(Sec) or MEd or MEdLead or MEChild or GradCertEdStud
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description

In this unit teacher education students will be supported to critically engage with, reflect on, and apply to practice fundamental considerations for ensuring high quality and equitable educational opportunities for all learners. Teacher education students will be provided with opportunities to develop advanced understandings of key issues related to inclusive and special education in contemporary education contexts. Acknowledging and valuing the full range of human diversity, teacher education students will develop and apply advanced knowledge and skills to providing high quality education to all learners in primary and secondary settings. There is a focus on complex and sometimes conflicting theoretical perspectives. The pervasive influence of social constructions of disability and issues of ableism and disablism will be addressed. Relevant legislation, policy, and practice will be examined. Teacher education students will critically analyse barriers to equity in education for students with disability. A range of research-informed pedagogical approaches will be explored and evaluated. Family perspectives; understanding diverse learners; collaboration; establishing an inclusive classroom environment; and designing inclusive curriculum and teaching practices including engaging with universal design for learning and quality differentiated practices will be considered.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • ULO1: Demonstrate advanced understandings of key issues related to inclusive and special education in contemporary education contexts, including critical analysis of barriers to equity in education for students with disability.
  • ULO2: Develop a clear understanding of ethical, legislative and policy responsibilities of teachers as related to educational provision for learners across the full range of human diversities.
  • ULO3: Identify and critically evaluate complex and conflicting theoretical perspectives and demonstrate a developed understanding of social constructions of disability and the pervasive nature of ableism and disablism in educational contexts.
  • ULO4: Demonstrate research-informed knowledge of the importance of collaboration, including consideration of family perspectives and school-family-community relations.
  • ULO5: Develop and apply research-informed knowledge of a range of approaches to designing curriculum, pedagogy, assessment and environments that cater for all students in diverse classrooms, including engaging with universal design for learning and quality differentiated practices, and evaluating processes for identifying specific learning needs.
  • ULO6: Apply research-informed knowledge and understanding of approaches to responding to complex behaviour.
  • ULO7: Demonstrate understanding of key factors involved in establishing an inclusive classroom culture and environment from the perspective of transforming schools in order to improve educational and community outcomes.

Assessment Tasks

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Assessment details are no longer provided here as a result of changes due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Students should consult iLearn for revised unit information.

Find out more about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and potential impacts on staff and students

General Assessment Information

Assessment Presentation and Submission Guidelines 

Please follow these guidelines when you submit each assignment: 

  • Allow a left and right-hand margin of at least 2cm in all assignments. 

  • Please type all assignments using 12-point font and 1.5 spacing. 

  • All assessments must be submitted through Turnitin in .doc or .pdf format  

  • It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all assessments are successfully submitted through Turnitin. 

  • Faculty assignment cover sheets are NOT required. 

 

Draft Submissions & Turnitin Originality Reports 

  • Students may use Turnitin’s Originality Report as a learning tool to improve their academic writing if this option is made available in the unit. 

  • Students are strongly encouraged to upload a draft copy of each assessment to Turnitin at least one week prior to the due date to obtain an Originality Report. 

  • The Originality Report provides students with a similarity index that may indicate if plagiarism has occurred. Students will be able to make amendments to their drafts prior to their final submission on the due date. 

  • Generally, one Originality Report is generated every 24 hours up to the due date. 

 

Please note: 

  • Students should regularly save a copy of all assignments before submission, 

  • Students are responsible for checking that their submission has been successful and has been submitted by the due date and time. 

 

Assignment extensions and late penalties

  • In general, there should be no need for extensions except through illness or misadventure that would be categorised as serious and unavoidable disruption according to the University definition of same, see:  https://students.mq.edu.au/study/my-study-program/special-consideration

  • Applications for extensions must be made via AskMQ according to the Special Consideration policy. Extensions can only be granted if they meet the Special Considerations policy and are submitted via https://ask.mq.edu.au/. This will ensure consistency in the consideration of such requests is maintained.  

  • Late submissions without extension will receive a penalty of 5% reduction of the total possible mark for each day late (including weekends and public holidays). You are reminded that submitting even 1 day late could be the difference between passing and failing a unit. Late penalties are applied by unit convenors or their delegates after tasks are assessed. 

  • No assessable work will be accepted after the return/release of marked work on the same topic. If a student is still permitted to submit on the basis of unavoidable disruption, an alternative topic may be set.  

  • Students should keep an electronic file of all assessments. Claims regarding "lost" assessments cannot be made if the file cannot be produced. It is also advisable to keep an electronic file of all drafts and the final submission on a USB untouched/unopened after submission. This can be used to demonstrate easily that the assessment has not been amended after the submission date. 

 

Requesting a re-assessment of an assignment

If you have evidence that your task has been incorrectly assessed against the grade descriptors you can request a re-mark. To request a re-mark you need to contact the unit convenor within 7 days of the date of return of the assignment and provide a detailed assessment of your script against the task criteria. Evidence from your assignment must be provided to support your judgements.  

 

Note: Failed assessments cannot be re-marked as they are all double-marked as a part of the moderation process. 

Please note: The outcome of a re-mark may be a higher/lower or unchanged grade. Grades are standards referenced and effort is NOT a criterion.  

 

University policy on grading

Criteria for awarding grades for assessment tasks 

Assignments will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the University's Grading Policy. The following descriptive criteria are included for your information. 

 

Descriptive Criteria for awarding grades in the unit

In order to meet the unit outcomes and successfully pass this unit, students must make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks.  Where this requirement is not met you will be awarded an FA grade with a maximum mark of 45.

Students will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the assessment policy: https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/assessment-in-effect-from-session-2-2016

In order to ensure clear distinctions between grades, final marks of 49, 64, 74 and 84 will not be used. The following generic grade descriptors provide university-wide standards for awarding final grades. 

HYPERLINK "https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/assessment-in-effect-from-session-2-2016" 

 

Grade 

Descriptor 

HD 

(High Distinction) 

Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions and their implications; creativity in application as appropriate to the discipline. 

D 

(Distinction) 

Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles and theories, distinctive insight and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is demonstration of frequent originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience. 

Cr 

(Credit) 

Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the discipline. 

P 

(Pass) 

Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the field of study; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes 

F 

(Fail) 

Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the discipline. 

 

Note: If you fail a unit with a professional experience component the fail grade will be on your transcript irrespective of the timing of the placement. 

 

Withdrawing from this Unit

If you are considering withdrawing from this unit, please seek academic advice via https://ask.mq.edu.au before doing so as this unit may be a co-requisite or prerequisite for units in the following sessions and may impact on your progression through the degree.

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au. 

Units with Submissions of Family & Children’s Records 

Some assessment tasks require students to submit records about families and about children and their learning. It is expected that the records submitted are original, authentic, adhere to ethical practices and are the work of the student. Issues with the authenticity of such records will be investigated for possible forgery. Please note that submitted records can only be used once for assessment purposes. 

Confidentiality 

Students must respect the need for sensitivity and confidentiality, and ensure that privacy obligations are met. There should be nothing in assessment submissions that identifies a centre or school. Use pseudonyms for any children or adults referred to in the assignment. Do not record details that enable identification of a site, or of children or adults. 

Delivery and Resources

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Any references to on-campus delivery below may no longer be relevant due to COVID-19.

Please check here for updated delivery information: https://ask.mq.edu.au/account/pub/display/unit_status

Required and recommended texts 

The required textbook for this unit is Inclusive Education for the 21st Century: Theory, policy and practice. by Linda J. Graham (2020). Allen & Unwin.

Other weekly readings and resources will be made available to students via links on the unit website + / or Leganto (University's library link).

This is a core unit in the Master of Teaching (Primary / Secondary) and the Master of Education. It is offered both internally and externally.

Internal students attend for three (3) hours each week and undertake an additional 6 hours of personal study per week in their own time.

External students attend two (2) on-campus days during the session and undertake an additional 6 hours of personal study per week in their own time.

 

Information about the unit iLearn site

This unit has a full web presence through iLearn.   

Students will need regular access to a computer and the internet to complete this unit.  

Weekly access to iLearn is compulsory for all students. Important assessment information will be posted there, as will other relevant unit notices and materials, including a reading template and guide to lecture note taking to assist your studies. 

Various activities and materials for discussion and critical reflection are included and external students especially are encouraged to use this web component. Electronic links and suggested references will be included in the Resources section. Please check the iLearn unit regularly.  

 

Lectures 

Weekly lectures are available on the web through ECHO360. You must listen to all lectures if you do not attend these ‘live’. PowerPoint slides are available in iLearn in advance of the weekly lecture and/or are available in the Active Learning Tool.  

 

Support resources

Macquarie University has a range of services for students. If you are struggling with any aspect of academic life or career trajectory and skills, we have great supports within the university. Please refer to the comprehensive list of support services here 

Access and technical assistance  

Information for students about access to the online component of this unit is available at ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/MQ/. You will need to enter your student username and password.

Please do NOT contact the Unit Convenor regarding iLearn technical help.  

No extensions will be given for any technical issues. Allow enough time for your submissions. 

Assistance is available from IT Helpdesk ph: 1800 67 4357, or log a request at help.mq.edu.au. OneHelp is the online IT support service for both students and staff.

 

This unit requires students to use several ICT and software skills: 

  • Internet access: The iLearn site contains materials for this unit; it is also required for the online submission of all Assessment Tasks, and for the use of Turnitin submission for ALL tasks.   

  • Word processing, visual representations, and document formatting: You are required to use an appropriate form of software to present your assignments.  

  • Uploading of assessment tasks to iLearn. 

 

Structure 

The unit comprises two one-hour tutorials and a one-hour lecture. In the tutorials students will discuss issues and questions arising from the lectures and prescribed readings. They are expected to base their arguments/discussions on evidence from published research and other relevant material. Students are required to participate in small group activities and whole class discussion, to read the weekly material in advance, and to complete brief tasks either as individuals or in pairs. The weekly program for the course with the accompanying readings/ preparation is available on the following pages or on the unit iLearn site. 

 

Attendance Requirements

In the Master of Teaching attendance at tutorials (internal enrolment) and on-campus days (external enrolment) for this professional qualification is compulsory (80% attendance required). 

There will be a supporting website for the unit providing additional readings, links and materials. Lectures will also be available through Echo in iLearn from the following website link: http://ilearn.mq.edu.au 

Unit Schedule

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

The unit schedule/topics and any references to on-campus delivery below may no longer be relevant due to COVID-19. Please consult iLearn for latest details, and check here for updated delivery information: https://ask.mq.edu.au/account/pub/display/unit_status

The learning content in this unit is structured into five modules:

 

Module 1: Understanding inclusive and special education

Module 2: Collaboration in diverse school communities

Module 3: Universal approaches to pedagogy, curriculum and assessment

Module 4: Creating inclusive classrooms

Module 5: Transformation for inclusion

 

Detailed information about module content and weekly readings will be available on the iLearn site.

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central).

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/getting-started/student-conduct​

Results

Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

Department Procedures

In addition, the following policies and procedures of the Macquarie School of Education are applicable in this unit.

Attendance for units

All Internal tutorials begin in Week 1 of Session. 

Activities completed during weekly tutorials (internal) or on campus days (external) are essential for building the core knowledge and/or skills required to demonstrate the learning outcomes of this unit [and to meet the AITSL Graduate Teacher Standards and/or ACECQA requirements]. 

In the Master of Teaching attendance at tutorials (internal enrolment) and on-campus days (external enrolment) for this professional qualification is compulsory (80% attendance required). 

All other units: Attendance at all tutorials or on campus days is expected and the roll will be taken.

Students are required to attend the tutorial in which they are enrolled. Any changes to tutorial enrolments must be completed officially through e-student. Please do not contact the unit convenor requesting a change. 

  

Unit Expectations

  • Students are expected to read weekly readings before completing tasks and attending tutorials 

  • Students are expected to listen/attend weekly lectures before completing tasks and attending tutorials 

  • Students are required to make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks to pass the unit. 

Note: It is not the responsibility of unit staff to contact students who have failed to submit assignments.  If you have any missing items of assessment, it is your responsibility to make contact with the unit convenor.

Workload

In a 10 credit-point unit you should expect to commit 150 hours of your time to your studies across the session.

Electronic Communication 

 It is the student’s responsibility to check all electronic communication on a regular weekly basis.  Communication may occur via:

  • Official MQ Student Email Address [Note: Please do not email staff from any email account other than your uni email account.] 

  • The Dialogue function on iLearn 

  • Other iLearn communication functions 

 External Students 

The on-campus sessions on are essential to student engagement and learning, and attendance on both days is expected. Failure to attend, or to have an approved Special Consideration, may result in a Fail grade for the unit. Please see attendance requirements in this unit guide.   

Prior to the on-campus sessions, you should have read the prescribed readings and listened to the lectures. Summarise the main points, and make a note of the key terms and definitions. Prepare any discussion questions of your own that you wish to share. 

Please make effective use of the online component of the unit and access iLearn regularly. Keep up to date with listening to the lectures on a weekly basis. 

 

EDST8301 On campus sessions 

The on campus sessions for this unit are being held on: 

Day 1  March 21st (9:00-5:00) 

Day 2  May 2nd     (9:00-5:00) 

Further specific details and any updates about times and locations will be posted on iLearn as an Announcement during the first half of the semester. 

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to help you improve your marks and take control of your study.

The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources. 

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

If you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.