ACT Conducted Live Observation Session on Inclusive Education at Asha Kiran Special Needs School

Asian College of Teachers (ACT) successfully conducted an observation session on March 27, 2025, as part of its 5-day CPD Workshop on ‘Managing and Supporting Learners with Special Needs in Inclusive Classrooms’ at Asha Kiran Special Needs School in Bengaluru. The observation session was attended by five participants, two ACT facilitators, nine ASD students, one Asha Kiran facilitator, two additional teachers, and Dr. Rita James, a distinguished educator and therapist with over 30 years of experience working with special needs children. She holds an honorary Ph.D. in Social Work from the Academy of Universal Global Peace. and specialized in teaching the hearing impaired at T.T.U. in Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA. The session was designed to provide ACT participants with an opportunity to experience real-time classroom teaching for specially-abled children, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application.

The observation session was particularly insightful, as participants got the chance to observe a classroom of seven students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from higher grades (Class IX and X), some were with additional learning disabilities (LDs), and one was an ‘atypical’ student. The lesson observed focused on ‘Energy Conservation’, where the students actively participated and responded confidently to their teacher’s questions, showcasing their cognitive engagement and learning abilities.

A key highlight of the session was an interactive FAQ discussion with Dr. Rita James, a seasoned expert in the field of special education. She patiently addressed queries from ACT participants, offering invaluable insights into handling autistic learners in an inclusive setup. Mrs. James emphasized the importance of societal acceptance and respect for children with special needs. This school observation session was one of the most impactful components of the SEN workshop, providing participants with a firsthand understanding of the real-world challenges and strategies involved in inclusive education. By witnessing the practical application of classroom management techniques for special needs learners, participants gained deeper insights into how autistic students can be successfully integrated into mainstream education. ACT remains committed to enhancing the skills of educators and promoting inclusivity in education, ensuring that every child, regardless of their abilities, receives the support and understanding they deserve.