Barrier-Free Instruction in Japan

Essential Reading for Educators and Parents

"Barrier-Free Instruction in Japan: Recommendations for Teachers at All Levels of Schooling," edited by Alexandra Burke, Davey Young, and Melodie Lorie Cook, is a must-read for educators and parents. This comprehensive guide explores inclusive education, offering practical strategies to support language learners with challenges.

A Thoughtful Presentation of Learning Difficulties

The book is divided into three main sections. The first part provides a global and local perspective on inclusive education, detailing its development in Japan and the barriers faced by language learners with specific learning difficulties. The editors offer insightful discussions on inclusive practices tailored for English language teachers, laying a solid foundation for understanding and implementation.

In the second part, the book tackles challenges faced at the university level. It features strategies to reduce barriers for Japanese university students with learning difficulties, alongside case studies that showcase the empowerment of tertiary English language learners. A significant highlight is the emphasis on creating inclusive environments for all students, faculty, and staff, with a special focus on the social model of color blindness in language learning.

The third part focuses on pre-tertiary education challenges. It includes a compelling interview on dyslexia in Japanese schooling and practical advice on integrating the needs of undiagnosed twice-exceptional (2e) students into English communication programs for junior high school students. The narrative extends to teaching Canadian inclusive education in Japanese elementary schools and fostering access for children with diverse backgrounds.

An invaluable resource for educators and parents dedicated to creating inclusive educational environments.

Recommendations and Strategies

The book is rich with practical recommendations, such as utilizing assistive technologies, implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), and adopting universal design for learning (UDL) principles. These strategies are designed to help educators create more inclusive and supportive classroom environments.

This book is an invaluable resource for educators and parents dedicated to creating inclusive educational environments. With its comprehensive coverage and practical insights, it’s essential reading for anyone committed to supporting language learners with specific challenges.

About the Author-Editors

Alexandra Burke is a lecturer at Gifu Shotoku Gakuen University, known for her extensive research on neurodiversity.

Davey Young, a lecturer at Sophia University, holds a PhD in International Studies and focuses on preparing English language teachers to teach students with disabilities.

Melodie Lorie Cook, a professor at the University of Niigata Prefecture, researches learning disabilities and social issues, bringing a wealth of knowledge to this collaborative work.