Exploring General Education Teachers' Perceptions and Implementation of Inclusive Education in Liberia

• In Event: AERA Research in Progress Roundtable Session Two
  In Invited Roundtable: Research-in-Progress RT064 (Thursday)

Abstract

This study explores the perceptions and practices of general education teachers (GETs) in implementing inclusive education (IE) in Liberia. GETs now shoulder the responsibility of educating students with and without disabilities in general education classrooms, which is crucial to translating policy into practice. Yet, their perceptions and IE implementation practices remain underexplored in Liberia. This qualitative case study, informed by Bourdieu’s concepts of habits, capital, and field, investigates the perceptions of 10 GETs from five public schools in Liberia, drawing data from interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. The study seeks to inform policymakers, education leaders, and international partners on strengthening IE to ensure equitable access to education for all learners.

Author

• Lydia K Mallah, Florida International University