Pupils' Attitudes toward Inclusive Education

Area of Science:

• Social Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Adolescent attitudes towards disability significantly impact school social dynamics and success.
• Understanding knowledge levels and attitudes is crucial for inclusive educational environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess adolescent knowledge and attitudes toward individuals with disabilities.
• To explore factors influencing these attitudes within the school environment.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative survey administered to 1806 adolescents (ages 11-16) across the Czech Republic.
• Qualitative component using open-ended questionnaire questions.
• Random sampling ensuring a representative participant pool.

Main Results:

• 70% of adolescents possess basic knowledge about disabilities.
• Overall positive attitudes towards individuals with disabilities were observed.
• Girls exhibited significantly more positive attitudes and openness to discussion than boys.
• Attitudes varied by disability type, with intellectual disabilities eliciting the most uncertainty.

Conclusions:

• Adolescents generally hold positive views of disability, but nuanced understanding and comfort levels exist.
• Gender differences in attitudes and openness warrant further investigation in inclusive education.
• Targeted interventions may be needed to address specific uncertainties regarding intellectual disabilities.