Prioritization of Professional Development Needs for Inclusive Practices in Developing Regions

• In Event: Hilton Roundtable Session 18
  In Roundtable Session: International Inclusion Education

Abstract

In many regions of the world resources are scarce; children and young adults live in situations of extreme vulnerability and are exposed to challenges in meeting their basic needs. In Uganda and Liberia, there are a number of variables that exacerbate vulnerability in children including conflict, government instability and disease. Particularly troubling is the high rate of disability and the fact that these children are not included in schools. Teacher preparation is key however; western models cannot be uniformly applied with the hope of much success. This study was designed as a preliminary step to identify special education teaching practices thought to be essential for teachers in these regions and those which offered the most hope of success in implementation.

Authors

• Susan ORourke, Carlow University

• Kevin Wayne Spencer, Carlow University