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5 - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Kazakhstani Schools

from Part I - Foundations of Scaling Up

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  09 November 2023

By
Tsediso Michael Makoelle ,
Daniel Hernández-Torrano ,
Michelle Somerton  and
Natallia Yakavets
Edited by
Colleen McLaughlin ,
Liz Winter  and
Natallia Yakavets
Colleen McLaughlin
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
Liz Winter
Affiliation:
University of Exeter
Natallia Yakavets
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
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Summary

This chapter gives an overview of the concepts of diversity, equity and inclusion in the context of Kazakhstan. It gives an exposition of developments regarding the process of implementing inclusive education in Kazakhstan. A historical policy context is mapped out. The chapter uses Ainscow’s lever of change approach to highlight how inclusion has evolved in aspects of conceptualisation, curriculum, policy development, teacher practices, beliefs and attitudes, schools, leadership, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and communities. One of the lessons drawn from the review is that despite efforts and plans to make the system more equitable and inclusive, the conditions for inclusive education have not been met. There is a need to revise policies regarding student placement and practices in teaching and learning. While curriculum reforms were implemented, less effort seems to have been invested in preparation of pre-service teachers. The fact students with disabilities and special needs are integrated into the mainstream means more training for school leaders on managing inclusive schools is needed.

Keywords

Inclusive educationequitydiversityinclusioninclusive practice
Type
Chapter
Information
Mapping Educational Change in Kazakhstan , pp. 75 - 92
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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References

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