Inclusive Classrooms Research Articles

PRESCHOOL PEDAGOGY AND TEACHING PRACTICES IN THE INCLUSIVE CLASSROOMS: A RESEARCH STUDY ACCORDING TO THE CURRICULUM PROGRAM IN GREECE

<p>The Curriculum forms the common framework for organizing learning in kindergarten based on certain principles. Preschool education, in the light of the development of basic abilities, is aligned with the principles of holistic development and learning adopted by the Curriculum. It is important that preschool teachers understand the core knowledge areas, concepts, and skills that are sought to be developed so that they can approach them holistically and dynamically. The purpose of this study is to investigate the views and educational practices of kindergarten teachers regarding the teaching plans and learning situations they organize in their inclusive classrooms in order to respond to the needs and capabilities of kindergarten children. It is a qualitative research, with the methodological tool of semi-structured interviews, in a sample of forty (40) kindergarten teachers from the regional unit of Epirus. Kindergarten teachers answered questions regarding: investigations, errors as a pedagogical tool, the learning situations they organize taking into account characteristics of the game, inclusive education in kindergarten, differentiated teaching and learning and the opportunities they create for intercultural communication. From the analysis and interpretation of the interviews, it is clear that the kindergarten teachers wish to harmoniously combine theory with practice and that inclusive education in kindergarten is a practical approach to diversity as an element that unifies and enriches the learning experience. However, the findings of the research also highlighted the need for teachers for training and further information on teaching methodology and practical application as well as the need to reframe and redefine the goals of the Analytical Study Programs in the direction of forming a high-quality modern school.</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0770/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Listening to Elementary Teachers’ Voices in an Inclusive Classroom: A Retrospect of their Experiences

Listening to Elementary Teachers’ Voices in an Inclusive Classroom: A Retrospect of their Experiences

The effect of ADHD-type behaviours on language skills development in the classroom context from the perspective of Polish EFL teachers

This study investigated the effect of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) on language skills development in English as a foreign language (EFL) from the teacher perspective. The focus was the ADHD effect on the learning of the individual with the condition and their classmates. The participants were 51 pre-school, primary and secondary school teachers in Poland. Data were collected using an online questionnaire with closed- and open-ended questions. The findings suggest various effects of ADHD on skills development in the EFL context. Statistical analysis also found a more significant impact of ADHD-type behaviours on the EFL learning of the classmates of the individual with ADHD and in upper grades of primary school and secondary school. The findings are discussed in the context of foreign language school curricula and inclusive classroom practices.

Empowering Teachers through Reflective Practice: A Pathway to Inclusive Classrooms in Pakistan

Empowering Teachers through Reflective Practice: A Pathway to Inclusive Classrooms in Pakistan

Formação continuada de professores: Perspectivas para a diversidade e inclusão no âmbito escolar

The research aimed to analyze the perspectives of continuing teacher education for inclusion and diversity in schools, highlighting the importance of adapting these programs to meet the needs of a diverse educational environment. The methodology adopted was a bibliographic research, which involved a review of the existing literature on the subject. The results indicated that many continuing education programs are generic and do not adequately address the complexities of diversity and inclusion in classrooms. The analysis revealed the need for a more targeted and practical approach, which includes specific strategies to address diversity and promote inclusion. In addition, the importance of institutional support to ensure the effective implementation of inclusive practices was emphasized. The conclusion reinforces that continuing education must evolve to incorporate concrete and contextual inclusion and diversity practices, promoting a fairer and more equitable education, and that a robust institutional commitment is essential to transform these guidelines into effective practices.

EXPLORING PARENTAL PERSPECTIVES: THE IMPACT OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES ON INCLUSIVE EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

This study investigates parental attitudes towards the efficacy of assistive technologies in facilitating inclusive education for children with disabilities within mainstream educational settings. The research aims to address the pressing need for insights into parental perceptions regarding the utilization of assistive technologies to support their children's learning experiences in inclusive classrooms. A questionnaire-based methodology was employed to gather comprehensive data from parents of children with disabilities enrolled in mainstream schools. The survey encompassed inquiries about parents' familiarity with assistive technologies, their perceived effectiveness, challenges encountered, and overall satisfaction with their child's educational journey within inclusive settings. The results of the research reveal multifaceted insights into parental attitudes towards assistive technologies. Findings indicate a generally positive outlook among parents, acknowledging the potential of these technologies to enhance their child's educational outcomes and promote inclusion. However, notable challenges such as accessibility, affordability, and adequate training emerge as significant barriers hindering the optimal utilization of assistive technologies. The discussion delves into the implications of the findings for policymakers, educators, and practitioners, emphasizing the necessity for targeted interventions to address existing barriers and enhance the accessibility and efficacy of assistive technologies in inclusive education. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of fostering partnerships between parents and educational institutions to ensure the holistic support and empowerment of children with disabilities within mainstream educational settings. This collaborative approach is essential for creating an inclusive educational environment that meets the diverse needs of all students. The study concludes that while parents recognize the benefits of assistive technologies, overcoming the existing challenges requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders involved. By addressing issues of accessibility, affordability, and training, the potential of assistive technologies can be fully realized, thereby improving educational outcomes for children with disabilities.

Attitudes Toward LGBTQ+ Youth in Agricultural Education: Q Methodology Study

Although research indicates school-based agricultural education teachers work to make classrooms more inclusive, some teachers may not feel prepared to support LGBTQ+ youth. The purpose of this study was to explore the attitudes of agricultural education teachers about the inclusion of LGBTQ+ youth in agricultural education. The 38-statement Q set was sorted by 21 Oklahoma agricultural education teachers. The resulting attitudes from the three-factorial solution were labeled: It’s Up to Me, It’s Up to Us, and It’s Up to Leadership. The It’s Up to Me teachers accept the responsibility to create an inclusive environment and program for LGBTQ+ youth. The It’s Up to Us teachers acknowledge the important collective role that students, teachers, and school and university leaders play in creating an inclusive classroom and program. The It’s Up to Leadership teachers acknowledge a need for further education and training in LGBTQ+ inclusion and feel there is too much pressure placed on teachers to be inclusive. The attitudes describe the diverse understandings of how LGBTQ+ inclusion in agricultural education might be implemented and supported with the need for more education and resources in LGBTQ+ inclusion.

A qualitative exploration of nursing and social work university students’ experiences of sexual and reproductive health and rights education in Australia and Hong Kong

ABSTRACT Nursing and social work professionals often exhibit avoidance or a lack of competence in delivering sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) care to service users. When such care is provided, it tends to be heteronormative and deficit focus. Thus, understanding how university education prepares professionals in the field is essential. This study is the first to qualitatively explore SRHR attitudes, learning experiences and educational needs of nursing and social work students in Australia and Hong Kong. Using focus groups, insights were gathered from 19 nursing and 21 social work students across two Australian and three Hong Kong universities. Thematic analysis of the data revealed that, despite regional and disciplinary differences, students’ SRHR educational needs in both regions and disciplines were not being adequately met. This negatively influenced their practical training and the quality of care provided. The study highlights the need to enhance SRHR knowledge and skills in nursing and social work curricula, thereby improving person-centred care. Recommended curriculum enhancements include promoting diversity and inclusivity, adopting a positive framing of sexuality, enhancing critical self-reflection and communication skills, fostering interprofessional learning, developing educators and mentors as role models, and creating safe and inclusive classroom and placement environments.

Written Language Errors Of Dysgraphic Children Aged 9-12 Years In Inclusive Classrooms

Written Language Errors Of Dysgraphic Children Aged 9-12 Years In Inclusive Classrooms

The Mediating Role of Professional Burnout in the Relationship between Life Satisfaction, Teacher Self-Efficacy and Job Satisfaction of Teachers Working in Inclusive Classrooms

The Mediating Role of Professional Burnout in the Relationship between Life Satisfaction, Teacher Self-Efficacy and Job Satisfaction of Teachers Working in Inclusive Classrooms

Nature for All: Utilizing the Universal Design Framework to Incorporate Nature-Based Learning Within an Early Childhood Inclusive Classroom

Experiences with nature are important for children’s development and there are many ways for educators to provide children with exceptionalities opportunities to interact with nature. Children with diverse needs can, and should, have opportunities to interact with nature. This article describes how to apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, a framework to improve and optimize teaching and learning for all people based on scientific evidence on how people learn (CAST, 2018a), to nature-based learning and articulates strategies for educators looking to provide more opportunities for all children to interact with nature, including those with disabilities. These strategies focus on how to incorporate nature within the indoor classroom and engage children with nature outdoors to promote development and learning.

Fostering Computation Competence with Non-Counting Strategies and Conceptual Subitizing in Grade 1: An Intervention Study in Inclusive Classrooms

Computation competence (CC) with non-counting (NC) strategies is an important aim of Grade 1 mathematics education, but studies have shown that many students struggle to acquire these skills and continue to rely on counting strategies in later years. Therefore, even though counting is an important first strategy for young children, it is vital to support the development of CC with NC strategies from the earliest stages of mathematics education. This study examined the success of an intervention to promote the use of CC and NC strategies and conceptual subitizing (CS). The study was conducted with a sample of N = 1017 Grade 1 students, and investigated whether the achievement gain was affected by the intervention setting: cooperative learning, individual support for low achievers, a combination of the two settings, and a control group. Students in the combined setting had greater achievement gains in CC with NC strategy use and CS than the control group and outperformed those in the other intervention groups in CS. The combined setting also benefitted low achievers in mathematics for CS, but not for CC and strategy use. A combination of cooperative learning and individual support seems to be the best option for improving the CS and CC and NC strategy use of first graders, especially low achievers in mathematics.

Teacher instructional arrangements for supporting social and academic needs of students with special educational needs in regular classrooms

ABSTRACT This study investigates how regular teachers support the inclusion of students with special educational needs in heterogeneous classrooms, focusing on instructional arrangements for fostering both social and academic inclusion. Conducted as two descriptive case studies in primary school classrooms, the research involved classroom observations and semi-structured interviews with teachers. Observations focused on instructional arrangements while interviews provided deeper insights into classroom dynamics. Results highlighted the importance of peer interactions in fostering an inclusive learning environment. In Classroom A, teachers paired students with moderate needs with proficient peers, promoting cooperation and support. In Classroom B, weekly reassignment of seating and partners for a student with severe needs emphasised diverse social experiences and reduced isolation. Teachers employed differentiated instruction approaches, such as adapting tasks and using peer support, to address varied needs. The findings underscore the critical role of teachers in creating inclusive classrooms through thoughtful instructional arrangements and peer support strategies, revealing the intertwined nature of academic and social inclusion. Despite the valuable insights, the scope of the study was limited to two classrooms. Future research should address the perspectives of SEN students and their peers and examine how inclusive practices evolve in secondary education and beyond.

Social referencing processes in inclusive classrooms—Relationships between teachers' attitudes, students' attitudes, social integration and classroom climate

AbstractAttitudes have gained much attention for supporting the successful implementation of inclusive education. There is evidence that students' attitudes towards joint lessons with students with special educational needs (SEN) affect peer relations in classrooms. But much less is currently known about the relationships between teachers' and students' attitudes and their effects on inclusive processes. This paper draws on social referencing theory to frame how teachers may affect students' attitudes. It postulates that students' attitudes towards peers with SEN and inclusive practices are affected by their teachers' attitudes towards students with SEN and inclusive practices. It also examines how teachers' and students' attitudes relate to classroom climate and social integration. Using a sample of 1.365 German 6th and 7th graders from 64 classes, we run a series of multilevel path models to investigate relationships between teachers' and students' attitudes with social integration and classroom climate. Attitudes are differentiated by a cognitive and affective facet and by whether they relate to students with emotional–social difficulties (SEN‐ESD) or learning difficulties. Results show social referencing for cognitive attitudes towards inclusive practices for students with SEN‐ESD. Results also indicate that teachers' cognitive attitudes and students' affective attitudes directly affect social integration and classroom climate.

The Czech version of the Teacher Efficacy for Inclusive Practice (TEIP) scale: validation and psychometric analysis of the instrument with primary school teachers

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to conduct a detailed psychometric analysis of the Czech version of the internationally used Teacher Efficacy for Inclusive Practices Scale (TEIP) questionnaire. Using a sample of 1434 teachers (Nwomen 88%) from 140 primary schools in the Czech Republic, a confirmatory factor analysis was used to confirm the hierarchical structure of the questionnaire with three correlated dimensions representing the general higher-order factor of the TEIP. The 6-item subscales Efficacy in using inclusive instructions, Efficacy in managing behaviour and Efficacy in collaboration (ω ≥ 0.8) and the overall 18-item TEIP (ω ≥ 0.9) all showed acceptable reliability. Convergent, discriminant, concurrent, and criterion validity of the TEIP were confirmed. Full strict invariance of the measurements was achieved for the comparison groups of teachers in terms of their age. Overall, perceived self-efficacy was found to be relatively high in relation to the implementation of inclusive practices, with teachers holding special education qualifications scoring higher on the TEIP scale compared to those without such qualifications (d Cohen = 0.5). The TEIP was shown to work well in the Czech sociocultural environment and is a reliable tool for (international) comparison and evaluation of teacher self-efficacy regarding teaching in inclusive classrooms.

IMPLICIT STRATEGIES OF ELEMENTARY GENERAL EDUCATION TEACHERS IN INCLUSIVE CLASSROOMS: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

General Education teachers don’t have exceedingly specialized capabilities in special education. We don’t have much encounters in an inclusive classroom. Not continuously, but regularly, it appears that teachers feel unequal to the errand of educating students with special needs. This study used a phenomenological approach, which explains how people interpret their lived experiences with a concept or phenomenon (Creswell, 2020). The objective of a phenomenological investigation is to understand and explain an event from the point of view of the participants. Many professionals in the literature express concerns about whether full inclusion is appropriate for all students with disabilities and emphasize the importance of maintaining a continuum of services. Supporters for a continuum of services for students with disabilities cite two main reasons. First, they believe there is an inadequate research base to advocate such a drastic change to the current educational system believes, the research evidence on the relative efficacy of one special education service delivery model over another is scarce, methodologically flawed, and inconclusive. A number of recommendations for future studies emerged from the data. This study was restricted to fifteen elementary general education classroom teachers from Davao City The first recommendation would be to expand this study’s sample size and the geographic area of the participants. Another recommendation would be to study the perspectives of participants not included in this study: middle and high school teachers, specials teachers, and special education teachers. KEYWORDS: Implicit Strategies, Elementary General Education Teachers, Inclusive Classrooms, A Phenomenological Study

Creating a Responsive Society for Effective Implementation of Inclusive Education: The Case for the Adoption of the Socioecological Model

Inclusive education increases human capital such as knowledge, skills, social interactions, and health, which enhance individuals’ chances for higher earnings, social mobility, and sustainable growth within communities and countries. For inclusive education to be successful, a written plan or an individualized education plan has been advocated for. The concept of this plan defines special education programs, accommodations, and services that a school board will provide for students or the practice of helping students meet their educational goals through educational programs that modify certain course requirements to be either above or below age-appropriate, grade-level expectations, and the provision of alternative course or class expectations that help students acquire knowledge and skills that are not part of the curriculum. Therefore, using this plan, the proponents of inclusive education advocate for the inclusion of individuals living with physical and mental impairments, such as sensory or mobility limitations, intellectual disabilities, language disorders, and behavior disorders, to promote education access to marginalized groups in society. On the other hand, the opponents of inclusion education argue that the concept of a written plan, or an individualized education plan, seems ineffective and paradoxical to the general government’s policy on an inclusive classroom. A review of existing literature on inclusive education shows that the inconsistencies in both the concept and implementation of inclusive education are the outcomes of the dichotomy between an unresponsive society, which encourages a stagnant or ill-prepared system, and a rapidly evolving political correctness environment. As a way forward, we recommend the adoption of a social-ecological model for creating a responsive society for the effective development and implementation of inclusive education policies based on the findings of our consolidated literature review. Received: 19 May 2024 / Accepted: 27 June 2024 / Published: 8 July 2024

Respect or ambivalence: interpreting student perceptions of inclusivity/exclusivity in a four-year predominately white institution

ABSTRACT Undergraduate students often view and define terms differently than faculty and scholars. Differences in the operationalization of terms can lead to miscommunication and misunderstanding, especially within university classrooms. The present study used the theoretical framework of sensemaking to understand how undergraduate students perceived and defined inclusion in university classrooms. Through the facilitation of eight focus groups (N = 50), we identified four elements that contribute to inclusion/exclusion: “Respect,” “Safety,” “Unfettered Expression,” and “Context Appropriate.” Theoretically, these findings show a lack of concreteness in students’ definition of these terms, which can lead to ambiguity and ambivalence when defining the boundaries of inclusive/exclusive spaces. The lack of specificity dilutes the power of these words and phrases, and its ability to meet its intended purpose (e.g., disruption of oppressive systems). Pedagogically, for instructors to become intentional practitioners of inclusion, we argue that instructors must have an operationalized definition of inclusion grounded in social justice frameworks, share this definition and its rationale with students, engage in instructor reflexivity, and develop proactive strategies to combat challenges to inclusion.

Supporting Inclusivity for Students With Disabilities: Perspectives From PreK–12 Art and Design Teachers

In this study, we investigated the demographic, educational setting, and pedagogical factors in inclusive visual arts and design classrooms for students with disabilities. We also explored how art teachers’ backgrounds, training, and school environments influence their approaches to teaching students with disabilities. Using survey research, we analyzed responses from more than 1,000 preK–12 art and design teachers in the United States, focusing on issues related to inclusion. The analysis provides insights regarding teachers’ characteristics, experiences, and pedagogical approaches for teaching students with disabilities in a post-COVID educational system. Linear regression provided insights into factors that can create a sense of community and belonging for disabled individuals in an art classroom. We found a significant relationship between teacher preservice coursework and teachers’ approaches to developing inclusive classrooms. Teachers who identify as disabled, undergo preservice coursework involving disabilities, refer to students’ Individual Education Programs, have sufficient planning time, and work in schools with collaborative models are more likely to adopt inclusive approaches to pedagogy and curriculum.

Breaking Down Barriers to Inclusion: Stories of Grade Four Teachers in Maintream Classrooms

This qualitative phenomenological study examined the experiences, coping mechanisms, and educational insights gleaned by eight elementary school teachers in Tibungco District, Davao City as they broke down barriers of inclusion in modern classrooms. Themes of their experiences that were identified included feeling overwhelmed and unprepared, facing resistance from parents and colleagues, and feeling like they are not making a difference. Coping mechanisms employed were building a supportive classroom environment, seeking professional guidance, and advocating for policy changes. Educational insights included promoting a supportive learning environment, differentiated instruction and learning materials, and collaboration with support services and stakeholders. These findings highlight the interconnectedness of diverse skills in handling and breaking down inclusion barriers. Furthermore, exploring teachers' experiences not only contributes to a nuanced understanding of modern teaching demands but also provides valuable insights for both educators and educational institutions, potentially leading to improvements in classroom management and inclusive teaching strategies.