Heart-Mind 2016 In Profile: Shelley Moore

Based in Vancouver, Canada, Shelley Moore’s research interests integrate the theory and practice of inclusive education, special education, curriculum and teacher professional development. She is particularly interested in how students of all abilities can be included meaningfully while also contributing to the learning of their peers. She is currently a PhD student at the University of British Columbia and just recently published her first book, One Without the Other. Shelley is a popular speaker and an active participant on social media: her website is blogsomemoore.com and her twitter handle is @tweetsomemoore.

What has working with children (especially those who face extraordinary challenges) taught you about resilience?

"What I see in kids who have faced extraordinary challenges is there unwavering vision that not getting through it, isn’t an option. It’s like there is no other direction but up and so that is what they see as the journey before them."

What does “integration” mean to you, and how does it relate to resilience?

"Well, actually I don’t think “integration” is the right word. To me that is just a forceful movement of people and holding them in a container. If we are comparing community and resilience, however, the word is inclusion….And to me - these two weds are very closely linked. The benefits f have a diverse and inclusive community is how it enables member to share their stories. It is in these stories that people can connect and find commonalities that form the enduring understandings and lessons that help guide us through life. Stories of resilience are extra powerful stories in these communities because they give a perspective not often considered when these individuals are excluded. They provide a lens of empty and compassion that cannot be taught, but only experienced through the building of and connection of their stories to others."

What is some advice you can give parents and educators when they try to help their kids navigate difficult situations?

"I think many times we try and avoid difficult situations or our advice to to avoid difficult situations. This, however, becomes very difficult for some, where avoidance isn’t possible. If left unaddressed, many may not have the coping mechanisms when difficult situations arise. Instead I think helping parents, educators and caregivers should help guide conversations and action to plan out critical and thoughtful possibilities and responses to problem solve difficult situations. This way there is nothing to fear, but only to better understand."

Always a fun and heart-warming presenter, Shelley Moore will be a keynote speaker at Heart-Mind 2016 on the morning of Saturday, October 21st, and she will also host a Big Conversation/Small Group session that afternoon.

Check out the profiles of other Heart-Mind 2016 keynote presenters:

 
Register for Heart-Mind 2016 now: buy tickets.

 

by David Samis and Jordan Lee

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