April 24 – Alex Burke – Unlocking potential: Students with hidden learning differences in your mainstream class

Attendance Free for All!

Event date: April 24, 2022 1:30

Online. Zoom link is here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87475690369?pwd=NU14ZjBWQURneGdweGw3L0RFT29BUT09

Abstract:

Why do some students put work in late, or not at all?

Every class has students with hidden learning differences : Inclusive classrooms = unlocking potential for all.

This workshop will give participants an understanding of the hidden barriers in language classrooms. It will include some simulation activities to show how particular classroom practices can either prevent students from participating, or can enhance them. Needs relating to students with Specific Learning Difficulties such as Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia and Dyspraxia and those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and vision / hearing differences will be demonstrated. Teachers are asked to discuss how these issues might present in their classroom, with an emphasis on practical solutions that can be used at a group level.
As most people who have a learning difference will never be diagnosed, or may not want to disclose their status, inclusive classrooms really can help the 10-20% of students who could grow up believing from a very early age, that they are “bad students”. This affects peer relationships, potential life income and long-term health status. Using inclusive classrooms can literally change lives.

Bio:

Alexandra Burke has taught English in Japanese public education from K1-12 and university since 2005. This includes thousands of hours team teaching, observing classroom interactions. She studied how activities increase student autonomy or create unexpected barriers for neurodiverse students. Based on international best practice, in collaboration with Japanese colleagues, she trialed a range of culturally appropriate strategies. Her background is public policy on reducing inequality within the Australian Government. She’s presented within Japan, overseas, and currently teaches at three universities. Burke has won two Best Poster Awards at JALT International Conferences 2019, 2020 and three Michele Steele Best of JALT Chapter Awards 2020, 2021. She was the Plenary Speaker at CUE Conference in 2021. She is the Accessibility in Language Learning SIG Publications Chair, JALT Mind Brain Ed SIG Neurodiversity Advisor and a member of the JALT Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Committee.