Page 20 - RUICHSS 2023 Proceeding

University of Ruhuna ISSN: 2706-0063
Matara, Sri Lanka

result, they require additional support and attention to help them navigate their

educational journey effectively.

Inclusivity brings benefits to everyone involved. Author Gozik (2021) introduces
the concept of "inclusive excellence," which stems from a strengths-based

perspective, emphasising that all students gain more from being in an inclusive
environment.

Diversity is fostered, valued, and embraced through universal design. Universal
design refers to the creation of objects, goods, and services that can be utilised by
individuals with various abilities without the need for modification, to the greatest

extent possible. In its widest scope, it caters to all individuals, from infants to the
elderly, irrespective of their abilities (Kiš-Glavaš, 2023).

Currently, universal design for learning is gaining greater prominence as an

approach to teaching and learning, seeking to offer all students an equitable
opportunity for success. It entails employing diverse methods to motivate students,
utilising various teaching materials and techniques, and allowing for diverse ways

of demonstrating knowledge. However, in specific instances, especially when
working with people with disabilities, this approach does not preclude the need for

additional accommodation (reasonable accommodation).

Reasonable accommodation is a personalised measure adapted to the specific
needs of an individual person (Ombudswoman for Persons with Disabilities, n.d.).

It comprises necessary and reasonable adjustments and accommodations that do
not impose a disproportionate or undue burden, facilitating children with
developmental disabilities, i.e., persons with disabilities, to enjoy or benefit from

all human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with others in
individual cases where deemed necessary (UN Convention on the Rights of

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