ABSTRACT
This study of the perspective on learning of teenagers Geoffrey and Michelle is an edited version of the report of an investigation carried out for the Open University postgraduate course which preceded ‘Developing Inclusive Curricula: Equality and Diversity in Education’ (E829), for which this volume is a resource. By means of observations, keeping a diary, some video sequences and interviews with parents and professionals, Linda Harris explored the interests and abilities of her two students. Issues raised by her project include: how far students are seen as having ‘profound and multiple difficulties’ when their behaviour is aggressive or uncooperative; the limits of new materials to stimulate students who choose to remain inactive; and the relevance of the National Curriculum to students who particularly enjoy activities outside the classroom. Linda Harris concludes that she needs to focus on improved non-verbal communication with Geoffrey and Michelle, to give them as much control as possible in school, to organise staff development sessions and to strengthen contact with services based in the local community.
