The implementation of inclusive education with regard to curriculum transformation in the primary schools

Abstract

Background: The purpose of implementing inclusive education policies is to provide equitable participation of historically marginalised communities in education. However, policy implementation is not always efficient and this has led to confusion, uncertainty and stress to educators, who are expected to practise the prescripts of those policies. Currently, in South Africa, legislative practices continue to improve to accommodate diverse learners in order to meet first world countries in the implementation of Inclusive Education Policy with the introduction of Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS). Aim of the study: This study focuses on the implementation of inclusive education with regard to curriculum transformation in the primary schools of the Ditsobotla Area Office in the North West province of South Africa. Research methods: The research study employed a qualitative approach, where data was gathered by means of semi-structured interviews with eight purposively selected schools and 20 participants, ideally teaching in different schools. One principal per school (4); One School-Based Support Team member per school (4); Three educators per school (12), giving a total of 20 participants. These teachers will be chosen because they are deemed to be the group that is critically involved in inclusive education at a school and would therefore be knowledgeable to answer the research questions posed. Findings: This study found that Inclusive education practices in mainstream primary schools have not been adequately established, and thus the practical implementation stage appears to have not taken its course. Recommendations: The recommendations put forth by the study suggested that since there is a need for effective implementation of inclusive education in schools, it is important that the role of institutional development and support officers should also be looked at. This would facilitate the implementation of inclusive education policies as there will be systems in place