THIS QUALITATIVE CASE STUDY explored the professional philosophies and experiences of preschool teachers and their support staff regarding the use of assistive technology devices (ATDs) in an early intervention inclusive preschool class. Using face-to-face individual interviews as data collection measures, the researchers aimed to understand these practitioners' teaching philosophies and experiences in terms of how they use ATDs with young children with disabilities in their class. A framework analysis of data identified three themes: establishing values for inclusive education, maintaining positive attitudes to overcoming challenges and orchestrating inclusive learning. The paper concluded that in order for the use of ATDs to thrive and make full impact on all children's learning and development, stronger frameworks for developing the inclusive values, philosophies, professional knowledge and practice principles of preschool teachers and their support staff are needed.
There has been a gradual move toward the inclusion of students with disabilities in Nigeria promoted by the National Policy of Education, as well as polices emerging from UNESCO; however, the infrastructure and resources to make inclusion happen are generally lacking. Based on this report and the need for more information on teachers' and parents' understanding about disabilities and inclusion as demonstrated in the literature, this study explored disability-related knowledge and understanding among teachers and parents in Nigeria. Specifically, using an exploratory case study including quantitative and qualitative data, this research was designed to explore teachers' and parents' knowledge about and understanding of students with disabilities and inclusion in the southwest region of Nigeria. Findings revealed that there is a need for more teacher and parent training in Nigeria regarding students with disabilities, especially as their willingness to support students who are struggling is positive. This willingness is a key component and first steps for moving schools and communities in Nigeria toward more inclusive environments.
Internationally, many countries have developed inclusive education policies to offer quality education opportunities to all students. However, many teachers are still grappling with how to facilitate inclusive education in their general education schools. Challenges to inclusive education have pointed to teacher perspectives and beliefs about the practicability of inclusive education in general education classroom. This paper explored and discussed the perspectives of 70 Saudi comprehensive elementary school teachers who participated in a group online dialogical interview about their understanding of disability, inclusive education, and considers how inclusion might work in their comprehensive schools. The findings revealed mixed understandings of disability and inclusive education, and challenges that must be mitigated through dialogic professional learning to improve their practice.
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