Special Education in the United Arab Emirates: Knowledge and Perception of Inclusive Education in Ras Al Khaimah

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 11:25 am
  In Roundtable Session: International Learning Lessons on Teaching and Learning (Table 8)

Abstract

The United Arab Emirates has a progressive special education policy that supports the inclusion of special education students. This paper examines teachers’ knowledge and perceptions about the inclusion policy and inclusive education practices. The research found no significant differences in knowledge or perceptions between and among teachers placed at government, international, and private schools. Knowledge about the inclusion policy was low. Teachers expressed very positive perceptions about educating students of determination but felt less confident that their schools could meet the needs of the determined ones in inclusive classrooms. To bridge this gap, the authors discuss policy recommendations for preservice and in-service teachers in the UAE.

Authors

• Mary Jean Tecce DeCarlo, Drexel University

• Alia A. Ammar, Mastery Schools