Schools 'should accept pupils with disabilities'

Dubai: A majority of public school teachers across the UAE are for integrating pupils with physical disabilities into normal schools, according to a recent study by Ministry of Education.

However the teachers have some reservations against pupils with vision and hearing impairments.

The study conducted by the Department of Special Needs Programme at the Ministry of Education revealed a 63.3 per cent agreement to integrate pupils with physical challenges.

Fifty-one per cent agreed to integrate pupils with minor mental challenges, while 40 per cent agreed to include pupils with visual impairment, and a 32.7 per cent to hearing impairment.

Flexible

Of the total respondents, 72.2 per cent recommended having separate classrooms within the school for pupils with hearing impairment, and 65 per cent for students with visual challenges.

The 55 participants of the study recommended employing a teacher specialised in special needs education, and acquiring advanced equipment and facilities. They also suggested a flexible curriculum to accommodate the needs of the visual- and hearing-impaired pupils.

As for the physical challenges, the study suggested changes in school structures to make it more accessible to pupils with various disabilities.

The study also suggested the gradual inclusion of pupils with special needs; so that it would eliminate unnecessary complications.

Dr Aisha Al Jalahima, Manager of the Special Needs Programmes Department, said the objective of the study was to assess teachers' view about integration, and get feedback.