An evaluation of the integration of children with autism into mainstream education

Harney, Fiona (2016) An evaluation of the integration of children with autism into mainstream education. Bachelors thesis, Dundalk Institute of Technology.

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Abstract

The attainment of an effective and supportive primary education is imperative in the development of any child particularly a child with Autism. The principle objective of this study was to explore and evaluate the integration of children with Autism into mainstream education from the educator’s perspective. In order to evaluate this integration one must develop an understanding of the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The acquirement of this knowledge will enable one to consider the different factors that should be explored when choosing an educational setting for a child on the Autism Spectrum (AS). This research was carried out to inform future practice in working with children with Autism subsequently allowing for appropriate support mechanisms to be inaugurated. Autism is a learning disability that affects a person’s communication, socialisation and behavioural skills. It is evident from current statistics that the number of people on the ASD is constantly increasing. This data emphasises the importance of implementing correct supportive measures for these people to reach their full potential. A qualitative research paradigm was used in order to obtain a comprehensive perception of the factors that need to be considered prior to placing a child on the AS in an educational setting. This method consisted of carrying out four semi-structured interviews which allowed the primary school educators to give an in-depth personal evaluation of children with Autism within this educational setting. It provided an opportunity for them to convey the effective methods of teaching that enabled these children to develop. Findings from this study identified that in order for a child to successfully integrate into mainstream education both parents and educators need to collaborate and support one another. Furthermore, it is imperative for educators to understand the needs of each child that they are working with and not treat them as a homogenous group. The subject of this research project is essential in spreading Autism awareness. This study implies that measures must be taken to ensure that the most effective teaching methods are applied. It also highlights the factors that need to be considered when choosing an educational setting for these children.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelors)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Autism; Education; Learning disability.
Subjects:	Social Sciences > Education Social Sciences Social Sciences > Sociology
Research Centres:	UNSPECIFIED
Depositing User:	Sean McGreal
Date Deposited:	08 Jun 2016 12:23
Last Modified:	08 Jun 2016 12:23
License:	Creative Commons: Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0
URI:	https://eprints.dkit.ie/id/eprint/502

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