Unveiling General Education Teachers’ Challenges Experienced in Inclusive Classes

• In Event: Inclusive Education: Outcomes, Challenges, and the Perspective of Students and Educators

Abstract

This study explores the challenges faced by general education teachers in inclusive classrooms, as discussed on the social media platform, Reddit. With the increasing inclusion of students with disabilities in general classrooms, teachers often grapple with limited resources and knowledge to deliver inclusive education effectively. By examining Reddit's r/Teachers subreddit, the study uncovers prevalent challenges in areas such as classroom management, lesson planning, insufficient school support, and communication with parents. Findings underscore a multi-faceted issue, with insufficient school support being a significant stressor leading to teacher attrition. It emphasizes the urgent need for immediate, context-specific support that goes beyond traditional professional development programs and fills the gap left by them, especially in curriculum adaptation and classroom management.

Authors

• Casey (Keunhee) Kim, University of Hawaii - Manoa

• Hunhui Na, University of North Carolina - Charlotte