TOWARDS INCLUSIVE EDUCATION: DESIGN OF A SCHOOL FOR MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES

Abstract

This thesis proposes an inclusive school which focuses on multiple intelligences learning for students aged 7 to 16 years, with or without special needs (mild to moderate), to learn and interact within a safe and conducive environment. While Singapore is moving towards a more inclusive society, the current social acceptance towards children with special needs is still relatively low. Many perceived that the low social acceptance is due to the gap in the education system for children with special needs. The current education system with academic based assessment continues to necessitate that students with special needs receive their education in special schools, which are segregated from the mainstream students. Such academic-focused and instructional based learning resulted in a one size fits all approach in school design, where learning happens within a standard classroom setting, comprising of students of similar learning abilities. As such, students with different learning abilities and sensory needs are being segregated from mainstream schools. To move towards an inclusive educational system, the thesis acknowledges that each student is unique with different intelligence potential. Hence, the thesis proposes a pedagogical shift from one which focuses on academic intelligence, instructional and passive learning to one which emphasizes on developing multiple intelligences through experiential and active learning. With the emphasis on multiple intelligences learning, the school will be designed for different forms of learning, creating spaces for different spatial experiences to cater to all students with or without special needs. Also, the school seeks to bring the community to the school to create opportunities for mutual interaction between the students and the community. With the intention to create a safe and conducive environment for students to learn and interact with the community, the proposed school is situated adjacent to the boulevard park in Tampines North new town. The location serves as a car-free connector which provides a safe environment for students and community to interact.