Going to the Cinema: A Shared Experience for Students with and without Impairments

Organisation piloting the Good Practice

JU Srednja poslovno-komercijalna i trgovačka škola, Sarajevo / Secondary School of Business, Commerce, and Trade.

Country

Bosna i Hercegovina

Description of the good practice

This activity involved taking a mixed group of students (including both students with impairments and students without impairments) to the cinema to watch a movie suitable for their age group. The goal was to offer a social outing that encouraged inclusivity, cultural engagement, and the enjoyment of shared experiences. The students had the opportunity to experience the cinema environment, watch an entertaining film together, and engage in discussions afterwards.

Background

The practice was implemented to provide a shared, enjoyable experience for students of diverse abilities, fostering inclusivity and mutual understanding. It aimed to promote social interaction between students with impairments and their peers without impairments in a relaxed and fun setting. Additionally, it offered an opportunity for students to experience a social outing that many may not have had access to otherwise, while also developing their ability to participate in group activities outside of the classroom.

Steps to take if you want to implement the good practice from planning to execution and evaluation if included

1. Planning

  • Choose an appropriate movie that is suitable for the age and abilities of all students.
  • Coordinate transportation to and from the cinema, ensuring accessibility for all students (e.g., wheelchair access, seating arrangements).
  • Prepare the students for the outing by discussing movie etiquette and the experience beforehand (e.g., quiet during the movie, respecting others).
  • Gather necessary consent and provide information to parents/guardians.

2. Execution

  • Arrive at the cinema early to ensure smooth entry and seating arrangements.
  • Ensure that students with special needs receive the appropriate support, such as seating with a buddy or aide if needed.
  • Guide students to understand the experience (e.g., respecting others, the importance of focusing on the movie).
  • Monitor the students throughout the movie to ensure comfort and safety.

3. Evaluation

  • After the movie, hold a group discussion to share feedback on the experience.
  • Encourage students to express what they liked about the movie and their experience at the cinema.
  • Gather feedback from teachers and assistants to assess how inclusive the outing was and what could be improved for future activities.

Target group/s of the practice

A mixed group of students with and without impairments (ages appropriate to the movie).

Number of students involved

A mixed group of 40-45 students with and without impairments.

Benefits, impact on the students and learning outcomes

Benefits

  • Promoted social inclusion by allowing students with and without impairments to enjoy a shared activity.
  • Provided an opportunity for cultural enrichment through exposure to cinema and film.
  • Enhanced social interaction and understanding between students of different backgrounds and abilities.

Impact

  • Students gained new experiences by participating in a group outing outside the classroom.
  • The shared enjoyment of the movie helped foster mutual respect and friendships among students with varying abilities.

Learning outcomes

  • Increased ability to participate in social activities in the community.
  • Improved social skills, such as cooperation and communication, in a public setting.
  • Enhanced cultural awareness and exposure to storytelling through film.

Suggestions for future users of this good practice

  • Choose a movie that is engaging, age-appropriate, and suitable for the diverse needs of the group.
  • Plan for all students’ comfort and accessibility, including ensuring that there is appropriate seating and support if needed.
  • Emphasize the importance of respect and behavior in a cinema environment before the outing.
  • Follow up the experience with a group discussion or activity, such as drawing or writing about the movie, to encourage reflection and expression.
  • Consider organizing a regular movie outing as part of a broader social integration program.

Other languages

Albania – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Kosovo – Montenegro

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