Inclusive Education Programmes: Challenges and Roles of Guidance Counsellors

Abstract

Inclusive education involves changes and modifications in content, approaches, structures and strategies, with a common vision which covers all children of the appropriate age range and a conviction that it is the responsibility of the regular system to educate all children. This aspect of education also ensures that quality education is provided for all, with respect to the diversity and the different needs and abilities, characteristics and learning expectations of the students and communities. This paper therefore, presents the challenges facing inclusive education programmes and as well discussed the roles of the Guidance Counsellors in ensuring that this aspect of education is widely accepted in Nigeria. Concepts, components and challenges of inclusive education were looked into and the roles of the guidance counsellors were provided. The paper concluded by suggesting that the guidance counsellors should guide students with special needs to develop their capacities as thinkers and make them have awareness of their capacities as thinkers; capable of developing skills, tools, attitudes to become increasingly independent as learners. It also suggested that special educators should not focus on the disability of a student rather focus on the student’s abilities.

Keywords: Inclusive Education, Guidance Counselling, Learning Disabilities, Special Education