Reflection on the Attention to the Diversity. Case Studies in Chile

Authors

  • Ana Luisa López Vélez Oficina Regional de Educación de UNESCO para América Latina y el Caribe

Keywords:

Action-research, Attention to diversity, Inclusive education, Professional development, School improvement

Abstract

Since 1990, the Chilean Ministry of Education has worked to develop an educational system that responds to diversity within a context characterised by hierarchical cultures and traditional practices. Nevertheless, little has been done to promote the conditions of schools and the capacities of teachers in order to respond to the diversity of the students in their classes. The research was carried out in two schools: Gabriela Mistral School, in Santiago, is one of the pioneer schools in integrating disabled students, whilst Nelquihue School is located in one of the most isolated rural areas and responds to a high population of Mapuche ethnic students. The study explored strategies for encouraging those within schools to develop reflective communities that are able to analyse and minimise barriers to presence, learning and participation. It also analysed whether such strategies can support teachers to become refl ective practitioners who are able to challenge their understandings and create ways of working that can reach every child, whatever their characteristics or personal circumstances.

Author Biography

Ana Luisa López Vélez, Oficina Regional de Educación de UNESCO para América Latina y el Caribe

Socióloga, Doctora en Educación en la Universidad de Manchester con su tesis “Using Refl ective Processes to Promote Attention to Diversity in Schools: a Study of Practice in Chile” (El uso de procesos de refl exión para promover la atención a la diversidad en las escuelas: estudios de caso en Chile). Trabajó como consultora en la Oficina Regional de Educación de UNESCO para América Latina y el Caribe en el departamento de Educación Inclusiva y en la coordinación de la Red de Innovaciones Educativas, INNOVEMOS. Entre sus colaboraciones en UNESCO, realizó la traducción al español del “Índice de Inclusión” para la región de América Latina.

Published

2008-11-01

How to Cite

López Vélez, A. L. (2008). Reflection on the Attention to the Diversity. Case Studies in Chile. Latin American Journal of Inclusive Education, 2(1), 159–179. Retrieved from https://revistainclusiva.ucentral.cl/revistainclusiva/article/view/2_1_011

Issue

Section

Temática Libre