Professional development for supporting teachers in implementing inclusive education : a case study of six schools in Butterworth and Dutywa districs, Eastern Cape

Abstract

Despite the DoE having made progress in providing training to teachers in the necessary skills, the inclusive education teachers were experiencing challenges to implementing inclusive practises in their schools and that some schools had not even commenced with implementation. They were raising a concern over their professional development, particularly its effectiveness. This study investigates the nature of professional development support offered to teachers in implementing inclusive education, in order to suggest effective strategies. The qualitative approach and multiple case study design were employed .The data collecting instruments used were: individual interviews, observation and documentation. The current professional development model used for inclusive education was not effective therefore strategies are needed to improve the current professional development.