Polyxeni Mitsi

Social and cultural pluralism of our contemporary reality has pointed out all the different facets of students' population in terms of readiness, interests, experiences, culture, needs and learning abilities, bringing thus the traditional, one-dimensional way of teaching and learning, down to inadequacy. On the basis of such rationale, it seems that Differentiated Instruction and Learning comprises a modern teaching perspective which is capable of corresponding to the complexity of the multi-leveled activation of each pupil's psycho-mental potentiality, to the acquisition of skills, to their actual involvement into the educational process and the development of motivation which leads to building new knowledge.

The inclusive education is based on each child's right to be a member of a common school life and to be provided with the most appropriate teaching and educational experiences. The present book takes regards that the inclusive education can address the diversity of students, taking into account that all general schools with an integrative orientation, constitute the most effective means for the achievement of education for all. The process of inclusion is affected by the applied models of disability and inclusive education. The child as a complicated individual is included in a continuously developing system of interactions with family, school, neighbourhood and social relationships. Both teachers and families can support the children's transitions but what is really needed are some broader changes in our schools and communities. Children with disability or special educational needs can equally participate in the school curriculum but first school readiness to accept them equally is necessary.