Fostering Inclusive Attitudes: The Impact of Coursework on Teacher Candidates' Attitudes Toward Inclusive Practices

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  In Roundtable Session: Preparing Special and Inclusive Educators to Promote Equity and Access

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of the impact of a pilot course focused on inclusive education on the attitudes of preservice teachers towards inclusive practices. The researchers compared the attitudes of teacher candidates enrolled in two introductory teacher education courses, as measured by the Multidimensional Attitudes Toward Inclusive Education Scale. Students in the pilot course expressed more positive attitudes in three key areas of inclusive practices: perspectives on the least restrictive environment, interactions with students with disabilities in the classroom, and comfort adapting the curriculum. Philosophy of education statements were also analyzed to identify course topics which students referenced in discussing attitudes towards inclusive practices. Results of this study can inform course development to support inclusive attitudes in preservice teachers.

Authors

• Alicia Marie Drelick, Rowan University

• Justin Freedman, Rowan University

• Brie Morettini, Rowan University