An Investigation into Teacher Educators’ Views and Awareness of Inclusive Education in China

• In Event: Roundtable Session 38
  In Roundtable Session: Inclusion and Accommodation in Educational Assessment SIG Roundtable

Abstract

Inclusive education has become embedded in practice in many countries during the past two decades. However, not much is known about this practice in China. This study aims to explore teacher educators’ awareness and attitudes towards inclusion in China. 235 academics from six universities across China answered an online questionnaire. Results indicated that, despite their overall positive attitude, the majority of the academics had no direct experience of inclusive practice, were not aware of the concept and government legislation of inclusion, and were not training their student teachers about inclusive education. The findings suggested an urgent need for awareness-raising in educators in China, to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Limitations and implications are also discussed.

Authors

• Sufang Li, University of Reading

• Catherine Ann Tissot, University of Reading