Preliminary communication
https://doi.org/10.15516/cje.v21i0.3433
Kindergarten Teachers’ Competences Regarding the Inclusion of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Early Childhood and Preschool Education Institutions
Esmeralda Sunko
; University of Split, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Edita Rogulj
; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Teacher Education
Ana Živković
; University of Split, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Abstract
The paper focuses on the analysis of the estimated competences of kindergarten teachers regarding the inclusion of children with autism spectrum disorders in early childhood and preschool education. Based on previous theoretical knowledge and experiences of kindergarten teachers, this paper estimates abilities and limitations of children with autism spectrum disorders, self-assessment of the competences of kindergarten teachers for their education and assessment of other conditions for the inclusion of children with autism spectrum disorder. The survey results obtained by a questionnaire distributed to 68 kindergarten teachers working in 6 kindergartens in the town of Split were analyzed. The findings showed a moderate level of knowledge about inclusion and low self-assessment of kindergarten teachers about their competences as active participants in the inclusion of children with a disorder from the autism spectrum. Factors which were found to impede the implementation of inclusive education of children with autism spectrum disorder include: insecure position of assistants in kindergartens, lack of competent kindergarten teachers, and insufficient co-operation with parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. The analysis points to a lack of systematic education and training of kindergarten teachers for inclusive educational practice. The authors emphasize the importance of knowledge and skills of kindergarten teachers in the area of information and communication technology, particularly augmentative and alternative communication.
Keywords
children with autistic spectrum disorder; competence of the kindergarten teacher; inclusive education and teaching; information communication technology
Hrčak ID:
229369
URI
Publication date:
13.9.2019.
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