Öğretmen Adaylarının Özel Eğitime İlişkin Metaforik Algıları

Abstract

This study examining the preservice teachers' metaphoric perceptions about special education was conducted with the participation of 85 preservice teachers in 2019-2020 academic year. Senior students studying in English teaching, Turkish teaching, Social Studies and Art Teaching programs of an education faculty were included in the study. The required data for the study were obtained by asking the preservice teachers filling a survey form containing the statement of Special education looks like a/an because……………….”. The obtained data were analyzed and interpreted by using content analysis method. Findings showed that preservice teachers produced 85 metaphors categorized under 5 themes: “Special education as a need”, ”Special education as a means of ensuring equal opportunities in education”, “Special education as a special interest and aid tool”, “Special education as a means of providing general acceptance” and “Special education as a differences”. The results of the study showed that preservice teachers’ metaphoric perceptions about Special Education are positive even though they do not touch on the topic of inclusive education. As a result, it is suggested that an inclusive education should be included and expanded as a compulsory course in the programs of different departments.