Inclusive Assessment

In one of my online courses, the assessment was four online tests. One of my students is severely mobility impaired and has difficulty moving his hands. During the online consultation, he asked me to give him the opportunity to take the oral tests, which he is entitled to do according to the Study Regulations. But I thought it would be a great opportunity for her to engage in a learning process very similar to other students, which would boost her confidence and have a positive educational impact. However, the student insisted on the oral exams.

I asked in the consultation to let me think about this again and let's talk about it the next day. I then asked him to give the first test a try, the result of which he did not have to accept. If he failed, he could take an oral test. He finally agreed to this. I extended the time limit of the test for him and he was allowed to try several times. This solution worked: he passed the first test and did not ask for a repair in the following tests.

I think it is important to develop the attitude of teacher candidates towards inclusion. I experienced this situation as a particular success and I think it was an important example for other teacher candidates. I felt (although it is difficult to say in an online situation) that the student with physical disability was able to integrate well into the group and I think the common 'challenge' of the test contributed to this.

For me, this situation is also about teacher autonomy: autonomy is needed to make thoughtful decisions in complex situations.