Framing the Inclusion of Students with Visual Impairment in the Regular Schools of Punjab: Efforts and Challenges

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to frame the inclusion for students with visual (SWVI) in the public schools of Punjab. For this purpose, researchers took the opinions of principals and teaching staff of the regular schools where SWVI are enrolled. Researchers used the survey method to conduct the study. A descriptive type of research was used. The study population compromised of all principals and teaching staff teaching in general inclusive schools of Punjab. The total ratio of the sample is 151(N=38). Principals and teachers teaching in inclusive schools (N=113) were taken as a sample of the study. The two-structured questionnaire was used, encompassing a dichotomous scale (Yes / No). The reliability of the instruments was estimated respectively 0.77 and 0.86. In contrast, the content validity of the instruments was assessed through experts who had experience in the field of special and inclusive education. The IBM version 20 was used for the analysis of the results. Results of the responses were calculated through frequency distribution with their percentage. Most of the principals who were administrators in regular inclusive schools emphasized that they have a zero rejection policy for admission in schools and make possible the friendly environment for students, positive feedback from the community, and an open-door policy for teachers, students, and parents to solve problems related to students. The majority of the school heads highlighted that school infrastructure is not according to the needs of students. Many teachers said that they lack training, have less knowledge to modify the syllabus and assessment procedures, do not have a proper source to adapt teaching material.

Analyzing the Needs of General Education Teachers to Teach Students with Visual Impairment in Inclusive Settings

“…As revealed from the findings of the study conducted by Rashid et al (2021), the findings of the current study also revealed that general education teachers lack effective pedagogical skills to teach SWVI in regular settings without compromising the rights of the sighted students. They need guidance for the selection and use of appropriate teaching methods that can fulfill the needs of all learners irrespective of their visual status.…”

“…It was recommended that proper need analysis should be conducted and teachers should be trained accordingly. Rashid, Ashraf, Jahan, and Javed (2021) conducted a study on framing the inclusion of students with visual impairment in regular schools in Punjab, Pakistan. The findings of the study showed that administrators followed the zero-rejection policy for admission of students and efforts were made to make the school environment friendly for all students however, the school infrastructure was found to be unsuitable for students with visual impairment.…”