In today’s educational landscape, inclusion is more than just a trend—it’s a necessity. As schools and learning institutions evolve to serve increasingly diverse populations, the need for innovative approaches that embrace all learners becomes more pressing. That’s where i n c r e a comes in. Short for “Inclusive Creativity through Educational Artmaking,” this initiative is redefining how we use the arts to build inclusive, engaging, and emotionally supportive educational environments.
By integrating artistic practices into education, i n c r e a promotes well-being, creative exploration, and inclusive participation across all age groups and backgrounds. In this article, we will explore the philosophy, structure, goals, and real-world applications of the i n c r e a model.
Table of Contents
- What is i n c r e a?
- The Philosophy of Inclusive Artmaking
- How i n c r e a Supports Educational Transformation
- Core Pillars of the Program
- Benefits for Students and Educators
- Real-World Applications and Use Cases
- Inclusive Tools and Artistic Mediums
- Promoting Emotional and Social Wellbeing
- Teacher Training and Institutional Support
- Table: i n c r e a Framework at a Glance
- Testimonials and Community Feedback
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is i n c r e a?
i n c r e a stands for Inclusive Creativity through Educational Artmaking. It is a forward-thinking educational model that encourages inclusive education practices through the integration of arts. Designed by interdisciplinary educators and artists, the framework helps transform traditional classrooms into creative spaces that foster self-expression, diversity, collaboration, and emotional growth.
Rather than treating art as a side subject, i n c r e a embeds it as a central pillar for cognitive and emotional development in both general and special education settings.
The Philosophy of Inclusive Artmaking
At the heart of i n c r e a is the belief that everyone has the capacity to be creative—regardless of physical, cognitive, cultural, or emotional differences. By using accessible and diverse artistic tools, the program aims to create a safe and inspiring environment where all learners feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Key values include:
- Equity in expression
- Recognition of multiple intelligences
- Interdisciplinary learning
- Social-emotional development through art
This philosophy allows for meaningful engagement across learning styles and needs.
How i n c r e a Supports Educational Transformation
Education systems are under pressure to be more inclusive and responsive. i n c r e a responds to this by providing a flexible, adaptable model that can be implemented across early childhood, primary, secondary, and adult education.
Here’s how the model helps transform education:
- Makes learning multi-sensory and engaging
- Encourages self-reflection and empathy
- Fosters critical thinking and collaboration
- Bridges the gap between curriculum and real-world skills
The program isn’t just about “doing art”—it’s about using art to reimagine learning.
Core Pillars of the Program
increa is structured around five key pillars that make its approach unique:
- Accessibility: Artistic activities are designed to be accessible to learners of all abilities.
- Collaboration: Students work together on group art projects that foster mutual respect.
- Reflection: Learners are encouraged to think about their experiences and emotions.
- Multimodality: Lessons include drawing, movement, music, drama, and digital arts.
- Empowerment: Students take ownership of their learning through creative choices.
Each pillar works in harmony to support holistic development.
Benefits for Students and Educators
Both learners and educators stand to gain significantly from the increa approach. Its benefits go far beyond classroom engagement.
For Students:
- Enhanced confidence and communication
- Better emotional regulation and resilience
- Improved focus and cognitive flexibility
- Stronger peer relationships
For Educators:
- Tools to address diverse learning needs
- Opportunities for professional creativity
- Stronger classroom culture and community
- Increased job satisfaction and reduced burnout
Inclusive Tools and Artistic Mediums
i n c r e a recognizes that inclusion also means providing tools that all learners can use. Some commonly employed tools and media include:
- Non-toxic, washable paints and markers
- Digital drawing tablets for fine-motor challenges
- Found-object sculpture for tactile exploration
- Voice-recording tools for non-verbal students
- Adaptive music instruments
These choices ensure everyone can fully participate, regardless of their physical or cognitive limitations.
Promoting Emotional and Social Wellbeing
Art is a powerful vehicle for healing and self-discovery. increa uses this power to support mental health and community connection.
Emotional benefits include:
- Reducing anxiety and stress through expressive outlets
- Building empathy through shared art experiences
- Offering safe spaces for trauma-informed practices
- Helping learners process emotions they may not have words for
The link between emotional safety and academic success is well-documented, and this model supports both.
Teacher Training and Institutional Support
For effective implementation, increa offers extensive professional development and organizational support. Schools and educators receive:
- Workshops on inclusive art pedagogy
- Resource packs and lesson templates
- Ongoing coaching and evaluation tools
- Community-of-practice networks for peer exchange
This ensures that educators are confident and prepared to lead their classrooms with creativity and inclusivity.
Table: i n c r e a Framework at a Glance
| Component | Description | Example Practice |
| Accessibility | Universal design for all learners | Braille art materials, adaptive brushes |
| Collaboration | Shared artmaking experiences | Group murals, partner dance activities |
| Emotional Expression | Art as emotional literacy development | Journaling, mood-based color activities |
| Reflection | Space to understand self and others | Visual diaries, storytelling sessions |
| Technology Integration | Digital tools enhance learning | Animation software, digital collage |
Conclusion
i n c r e a is more than a framework—it’s a movement toward a more inclusive, empathetic, and expressive world of education. Through creativity, schools can become environments where every learner is valued, engaged, and inspired.
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, administrator, or artist, you can play a role in expanding the reach and impact of inclusive educational artmaking.
Take the next step—explore how increa can transform your classroom, school, or community today.
FAQs
What age groups is increa a suitable for?
It is adaptable from early childhood through adult education, with tools tailored to each level.
Can this program work in a mainstream school setting?
Yes. It complements existing curricula and helps educators meet inclusion mandates.
Is special training required for teachers?
While training is recommended, the program is designed to be user-friendly and supported through workshops.
Does increa require expensive materials?
No. Many projects use low-cost, recycled, or digital materials to remain accessible.
How is success measured in the program?
Success is evaluated through emotional growth, participation, peer interaction, and educator feedback.
