Logo image
Teacher-carers' preparedness for inclusive education: Exploring knowledge, practices, and support needs for students with developmental coordination disorder (Dyspraxia)
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Teacher-carers' preparedness for inclusive education: Exploring knowledge, practices, and support needs for students with developmental coordination disorder (Dyspraxia)

Habeeb Omoponle Adewuyi
Education sciences, Vol.16(5), p.781
2026
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/10210/521986

Abstract

Education & Educational Research Social Sciences
Inclusive education is a cornerstone of the South African educational policy; however, effectively supporting learners with specific learning disorders remains a significant challenge, particularly within specialized school settings. This study explored the strategies and experiences of teacher-carers in promoting social support for learners with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD/Dyspraxia) in Johannesburg. Guided by an interpretivist paradigm, the researcher employed a qualitative study design, conducting semi-structured interviews with twelve teachers. Thematic analysis revealed that educators fostered inclusivity and social competence through individualized, learner-centred approaches, peer-mediated activities, and the creation of structured social learning opportunities. However, the findings also identified significant barriers, including a profound lack of teacher knowledge about Dyspraxia, insufficient training, and an absence of systemic support and awareness campaigns. These issues often led to misdiagnosis, feelings of teacher inadequacy, and ad hoc support strategies. The findings highlight that adequate support for learners with Dyspraxia depends not only on individual teacher dedication but also on structured professional development and institutional backing. The study recommends implementing continuous teacher training, adapting the curriculum, and launching nationwide awareness initiatives to better equip educators and foster inclusive learning environments. This study offers context-specific insights that can inform inclusive education practices in similar resource-constrained environments.
pdf
Research (51)667.89 kBDownloadView
Open Access CC BY V4.0
url
https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci16050781View
Published (Version of record) Open

Metrics

1 Record Views

Details

Logo image