Early Childhood Education as A Step Towards Inclusion: the Case of Enat Pre-School Injibara, Awl Zone System
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Date
2011-05
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study attempts to assess and evaluate to what extent inclusive early childhood education is
practiced and implemented in A WI zone, Injibara sub-city Enat pre-school. To achieve this
objective a qualitative research method was employed. The samples were selected by purposeful
sampling method. The respondents were 14, three teachers, three children, three parents, three
educational experts and two community members. The data was collected through observations,
interviews and document reviews. Semi-structured interviews were prepared and an observation
• check list was designed to outside and classroom observation of pre-school. The data was
analyzed and discussed in descriptive way. By categorizing the data in groups mean that class
room observation, outside class room observation, interview and document analysis data and
then which data is related to the research questions: the practice of inclusive education,
experience sharing, and awareness of teachers and parents. it is summarized and described
deeply. The findings of the study showed that the sample school compound is not that much
I
conducive for all children, such as the narrow classes, great number of children in the class,
narrow play ground, absence of resources room, high traffic areas and sound disturbance are
great physical barriers of the pre-school. On the other hand a good re lationship among the
children, teachers and children and teachers and teachers was ob se rved~lIij'he teacher's activities
to help the children with disabilities, enrolling them to the class, instead of leav ing them at home
are an indication of to a step up towards inclusive education. Lack of traini ng of teachers, experts
and parents are great barriers to implement inclusive education. Absence of experience sharing
of pre-schools, limited support system of the supervision and collaboration of stakeholders is the
other barrier to a step towards inclusive early childhood education of Enat r~ re- school. Finally
I based on the findings and discussion made, some helpful suggestions have been recommended
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Keywords
Education