Inclusive biology lessons: New book supports teachers!

Inclusive biology lessons: New book supports teachers!

On July 14, 2025, the new publication “Inclusive Biology Teaching” was presented, which was published at the Heidelberg University of Education (PHHD). The textbook and practical book, which was published in May 2025, offers teachers valuable approaches for inclusive teaching that meets the different needs of students. The free online availability via Beltz Verlag enables broad access to this important work.

The initiative to create the book came from students who asked for concrete ideas for inclusive biology teaching. In collaboration with specialist didactists, special educators and active teachers from special education and counseling centers (SBBZ), practical content was created that integrates both subject and special education expertise. Prof. Dr. Markus Lang from the PHHD emphasizes the need to combine both areas of knowledge to ensure effective inclusive education.

Contents and methods of the book

The book describes principles of modern biology teaching and their importance for the different special education focuses. An example of inclusive teaching methods is illustrated through the observation of plants and their pollination, with approaches adapted to the different learning needs of students. Prof. Dr. Karin Terfloth highlights how important different sensory impressions are for students with disabilities and how these can be used in class.

The concept of “Universal Design for Learning” is also included in the publication to optimize learning environments for all students. In order to successfully implement inclusive teaching, changes in working structures and methods are necessary. A special chapter on “active learning” shows how teachers can implement inclusive lesson planning in their everyday lives. Case studies illustrate specific funding priorities and offer teachers practical support.

Importance for inclusive education in Germany

The publication falls within the context of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities, recognized in Germany, which calls for equal participation of all people in education from early to adult education. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) promotes measures and projects for inclusive education that are based on the individual living and learning circumstances of the learners. The BMBF's activities include nationwide research funding and support for municipal educational structures.

The BMBF also launched the longitudinal study “Inclusive Education in Lower Secondary Level (INSIDE)” to examine the conditions for shared learning between students with and without special educational needs. This study accompanies various actors such as students, teachers and parents to shed light on the challenges and opportunities in the inclusive education system. In addition, projects to develop barrier-free learning environments and inclusive teaching-learning processes are part of the BMBF's research funding.

In summary, the publication “Inclusive Biology Teaching” shows that the further development of inclusive education in Germany is driven forward by the collaboration of various disciplines and a practice-oriented approach to the needs of students. This new resource provides teachers with concrete ideas and support for their everyday school life, which can ultimately lead to a rethinking of the school system and more flexible structures. Further information can be found on the website Heidelberg University of Education, dem OAPEN Library as well as on the website of Federal Ministry of Education and Research.