Inclusion: Creating a sense of belonging in class

The core text for this course is 30 Ideas on Inclusion in ELT. We will focus on five sections in detail over the six-week course: Understanding Inclusion, Methodology, The Learning Environment, Materials and Problematizing Inclusion.

It starts by unpacking key concepts surrounding the topic of inclusion before looking at more practical applications related to methodology and the learning environment such as creating a sense of community, offering choice and developing empathy in class. This is followed by an important section on representation in teaching materials.

It finishes by critiquing the term inclusion and suggesting that the ultimate goal of inclusive practice is to create a sense of belonging in class.

The book encourages readers to see inclusion in a holistic way, emphasizing that all students will benefit from such an approach not only those who feel marginalized or excluded.

Its fundamental aim is to raise awareness of the diversity that teachers may encounter in class and highlight the areas they need to consider in order to ensure all learners feel they can belong and fulfill their potential

Each week teachers will be expected to read one or more chapters in preparation for a live discussion. There will also be online discussion in a private form based on the book’s content.

Week One: Key concepts / Developing a holistic approach

Introduction: Why I wrote this book

Chapter A: Understanding inclusion

Weeks Two & Three: Methodology and the Learning Environment

Chapter B:  Methodology: Strategies and activities

Chapter C: The Learning Environment

Weeks Four & Five: Materials

Chapter D: Materials: Inclusive representation

Week Six: Closing thoughts

Chapter G: Problematizing inclusion

Live session dates: October 5, 12, 19, 26 and November 2, 9

Time: 10:00-11:00 UTC/GMT.

Check your local time.

Recordings will be available for participants.

Cost: 280 USD

We can provide receipts for research funds, if needed.

Required book: In this course we will explore 30 Ideas on Inclusion in ELT (Ben Goldstein, 2025). Participants are expected to have a copy of this book before the beginning of the course, and be prepared to read one chapter each week in preparation for live sessions.

Registration includes the six live sessions and unlimited discussions each week in a private forum. Upon successful completion of the course participants will have an option to receive a Certificate of Achievement.

Ben Goldstein

Ben is a writer, teacher trainer and conference speaker based in Spain. He taught materials writing for many years on the online MATESOL program of the New School in New York.  He has authored a number of ELT related books for Cambridge both for students and teachers. These include two methodology handbooks: Working with Images and Language Learning with Digital Video (with Paul Driver). He is also co-author of Evolve and Evolve Digital, a coursebook series for adults and Eyes Open/Uncover for teenagers. His most recent title is 30 Ideas on Inclusion in ELT (also Cambridge).