Access and Equity: Challenges Facing Inclusive Educational Practices

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 39
  In Roundtable Session: Adapting and Differentiating Instruction: Serving Students With Special Needs

Abstract

This phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of special education teachers who worked in inclusive settings. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven participants (N = 7). A thematic analysis resulted in five overarching themes including: (a) supporting students with disabilities (SWDs) within a collaborative inclusive model; (b) role ambiguity of the special education teacher; (c) the lack of roles and responsibilities of the special education teacher within the MTSS framework; (d) the changing role of collaboration and communication; and (e) the challenges impacting the inclusion of SWDs in the general education setting. This study exposed the multiple facets of school and district policies that directly affected special educators’ roles and responsibilities.

Authors

• Dena Dillenseger Slanda, University of Central Florida

• Mary E. Little, University of Central Florida