Action in Teacher Education · 2003 · 51 citations · 12 references
Multicultural EducationDisabilityEducationEarly Childhood EducationAdapted CurriculumSocial InclusionDevelopmental DisabilitiesElementary EducationTeacher EducationExceptional ChildrenInclusive EducationEarly Childhood TeachingTeacher DevelopmentElementary Education InstructionLearning EnvironmentsSpecial NeedsInclusive ClassroomsAccessible EducationEducational LeadershipSpecial Needs “Teacher EnhancementGeneral Education TeachersSpecial EducationProfessional DevelopmentTeacher Preparation
Abstract The increasing practice of inclusion of students with disabilities in general education classrooms has created a new context for general education teachers. As teachers are required to teach students with special needs in their classrooms, many do not feel confident in their professional preparation or ability to effectively meet these responsibilities. The purpose of this article is to share the results of a study that explored the perceptions of practicing general education teachers related to their needs to successfully teach students with disabilities. A survey was distributed to 71 general elementary education teachers. The survey included the question, “What information do you feel you need to more effectively teach children with special needs “? The teachers reported their primary needs focused around two broad categories of 1) information, and 2) administrative support. The results of this study may provide specific content and implications for restructuring teacher education and staff development programs to meet the needs of general education teachers.
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