The learning support teacher and integration values

The theoretical assumptions set out in this paper constitute the framework of reference for a pilot study on the learning support teacher as a mediator of values of integration. The study aims to identify indicators of best practices in educational planning, through the use of focus groups, guided discussions, participant observation techniques, research conducted using cooperative techniques, the implementation of case studies, interviews, etc. The activities were conducted during the Special Education and Special Teaching lessons and workshops, with practising teachers (enrolled on specific masters courses regarding teaching approaches for students with disabilities, learning difficulties and disadvantages) and with students attending the specialization course in learning support activities, part of the degree course in Primary Education Science of the University of Turin. The experimental activities were conducted by undergraduates in the abovementioned subjects in the context of their final degree or master’s theses. The research project led to the development of the following: educational planning models relating to value mediation; strategies for changing discriminating representations among teachers; forms of cooperation in drawing up projects; educational approaches geared towards developing students’ whole personalities, at the group level, with particular regard to those with disabilities, difficulties and disadvantages. This paper focuses on the values of school integration. The ethical principles concerned are currently of great importance for teachers at all levels, in particular for learning support teachers, who must become promoters of those values with students and colleagues. The learning support teacher is a profile that is peculiar to the Italian education system, and is tightly connected with the concept of integration as it has been understood and implemented in Italy. We speak of integration, therefore, and not of inclusion, as the former term is more in keeping and closer to the reality of the commitment and history of our country. In this specific field, Italy has played an important role through experimentation and innovation, which has shown other countries what people’s rights are and how to achieve full integration for everyone in ordinary schools. This is why the values underlying integration are the values which the learning support teacher can and must mediate with the class.