A Comparative Analysis of English Language Student and Teacher Training in Inclusive Education and Specific Learning Difficulties in Canton Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Abstract

The aim of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of topics on inclusive education and Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs) provided in initial and continuing training opportunities for English language students and teachers in Canton Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The study follows a convergent mixed methods design with an explanatory nature. A questionnaire was used to gather both quantitative and qualitative data on student and teacher views about training in inclusive education and SpLDs at the English Department of the University of Sarajevo and the formal English language teacher professional development programs in Canton Sarajevo. The results suggest that teachers are exposed to more topics on inclusion and SpLDs in their professional training compared to students and potential future English language teachers in their initial training, with a focus on strategies of reflective practice to inclusive language teaching and language learning processes of students with SpLDs.