Conductive Education (CE)

Conductive Education (CE) is an holistic integrated pedagogical/educational system, which supports students with physical and complex disabilities to learn how to overcome the challenges they face. Although the primary problem may be of a physical nature, these conditions impact on all areas of human development including: communication, cognition, social skills, health, emotional development, life skills. These conditions therefore cannot be seen as isolated physical disabilities.

• Conductive Education Features
  • The Conductor (Teacher) – an expert in physical disabilities, responsible for planning and implementing the integrated educational programmes aimed at stimulating the learning of the group using effective teaching and learning strategies based on an in-depth knowledge of the individuals and the impact of their conditions on all areas of development.
  • The Group – is created in such a way as to ensure all participants benefit from the experience and that learning opportunities are maximised. As conductors observe achievement and success, they will use the group to reinforce this.
  • The Daily Routine – is a carefully planned and highly structured timetable of activities which reflect an integrated system of teaching and learning.
  • The Task Series – is a teaching tool, a series of small, achievable steps carried out in a variety of positions to equip individuals with the required skills and techniques to accomplish their goals.
  • Rhythmical Intention – helps students learn how to successfully intend, initiate and carry out the movements successfully.
  • Facilitation – assisting students to achieve success and is always used to developing learning.
  • Observation – within CE it is unique as it relates specifically to learning. Constant structured observation is key to assess, evaluate and consider what needs to be changed/adapted to further promote learning.
  • The Learning Environment – is critical to the success of skill development. It is structured to ensure that the student experiences success, sees new potential and learns the strategies and techniques in achieving this in a different context.
• Student Focus
  • CE prioritises regular movement and position changes to improve posture, health, and functional skills.
  • There is a belief that every student can learn if taught appropriately; development of an ‘I can…” self-belief.
• Promoting Independence
  • CE is a process of experiences which leads the person to work with their motor disability, developing skills for increased independence, with an emphasis on maximising time out of wheelchairs.
  • Students are taught problem-solving and functional skills (e.g., transitioning from lying to sitting), with opportunities to practice and generalise skills in various contexts throughout the school day, promoting autonomy in daily life.
• Curriculum Integration
  • Through teaching and integrating skills required for accessing the curriculum and the world around them into their school day, students are encouraged to be active participants in their learning.
  • The successful integration of principles of Conductive Education into the Western Australian curricular documents ensures that appropriate attention is given to all aspects of the students’ development.
• Staff Expertise
  • Teachers and Education Assistants in CE classes are trained in Conductive Education principles and methodology and receive ongoing professional development.

Click here to view a short video about Conductive Education in WA.