Abstract

Inclusion in science classes presents a twofold difficulty: First, science is perceived as difficult and complex both to teach and learn. Second, learning disabilities are varied and there is great heterogeneity. Despite all these, science is considered to be a discipline with unique advantages that can address the wide range of students’ needs, providing relevant topics, hands-on activities, meta-cognitive thinking, sensomotoric experiences and teamwork. In light of the above, we developed an instructional model and a didactic multi-dimensional learning environment – The World of Science and Technology (WOST), aimed at providing an answer to the diversity in the heterogeneous classroom. Our findings show that the special characteristics of the WOST learning environment are applicable. The WOST influences students with LD and most students in class in a way that they feel more active in science lessons, more capable, and their achievements are significantly higher. In my talk I will present our approach and findings.