PERCEPTIONS TO CONTEXTUAL FACTORS AND ATTITUDE OF TEACHERS TOWARDS INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46827/ejes.v11i10.5631Keywords:
contextual factors, attitude of teachers, inclusive education, early childhood educators perception, PhilippinesAbstract
Early childhood educators' perception of inclusive education is likely consistent with their attitude towards the practice of inclusion in the kindergarten class. This study aimed to determine the relationship between primary school teachers' perception of contextual factors of inclusive education and their attitude towards inclusion. This study used the descriptive correlational research design. The data were obtained from a sample size of 82 public school primary education teachers who were selected through purposive sampling. A researcher-made data instrument was used to collect the data. Results of the study showed that early childhood educators have a strong perception of the contextual factors of inclusive education, and their attitude is in agreement with inclusion. Specifically, curriculum registered the highest mean score among the contextual factors, while teacher training registered the lowest mean score. In terms of attitude, professional development registered the highest mean score, while opportunity to learners registered the lowest mean score. Further, a strong significant relationship exists between perceptions of the contextual factors of inclusive education and attitudes towards inclusion. A positive perception of teachers in the context of an inclusive education curriculum is crucial to developing attitudes towards inclusion. Professional development and curriculum alignment are recommended to strengthen their confidence in their engagement in the inclusive class.
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