Status of Implementation of Inclusive Education Schemes for Students with Intellectual Disabilities in the State of Kerala

Abstract

Inclusive education (IE) has gained popularity as a method of transforming education systems in the world to ensure that every student must receive a high-quality education. Since the emergence of IE, people have accepted it as a way for enhancing the educational environment, one that is receptive to SwIDs, the most underprivileged and marginalized group in society. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the status of the implementation of inclusive education schemes for SwIDs in the state of Kerala. Descriptive survey research method was employed and five hundred samples were selected from fourteen districts of Kerala state. Purposive sampling method under the Non- Probability sampling technique was used to select the sample. The data was collected from respondents through a rating scale developed by the researcher, and the same was analyzed and interpreted using appropriate statistical techniques. The findings of present research study revealed that it includes the level of awareness, availability, accessibility and advantages among headmasters | headmistresses, general educators, special educators, paraprofessionals and parents under inclusive education schemes for SwIDs are average. The findings demonstrated that stakeholders' awareness of IES has a considerable positive impact on the implementation of inclusive education schemes. In today's culture, the current school scenario corresponds to the average level of availability of various aids and technologies in schools allowing SwIDs to live independently. The majority of schools in which research has been conducted agree on an average degree of accessibility give a way to access, advantages to all, and the capability to use accessible equipment in the classroom. The study's findings show that the average amount of benefit derived from inclusive education schemes implemented in their schools, which provides better opportunities for studying and developing a better profession for SwIDs to live independently in the State of Kerala.