The Role Of An Introductory Special Education Course In Shaping The Attitudes And Sense Of Self Efficacy Of Pre Service Teachers

Educational reforms have resulted in an increase of students with disabilities in inclusive educational settings. Teachers report they do not feel adequately prepared to teach in inclusive classrooms. The attitude of the classroom teacher could be the most critical factor to a student's success in an inclusive environment. Theachers with more positive attitudes and higher self-efficacy towards inclusion are more likely to adjust their curriculum and instruction to meet the needs of all students in the classroom. This quantitative study examined attitudes and self-efficacy of preservice teachers regarding inclusive education as well as the variables related to the perceptions. There is conflicting information about how teacher education programs can best influence preservice teachers' attitudes and self-efficacy towards inclusion. The results of this study have implications for educators involved in preparing teachers for inclusive classrooms. -- From abstract.