An exploratory study on the role of inclusive education in promoting equitable educational development in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background: Inclusive education, which involves integrating children with special needs into mainstream classrooms, is considered essential for achieving equitable educational development in the 21st century. In Sri Lanka, the concept has gained attention, but significant challenges remain in implementation. This study aims to explore the role of inclusive education in promoting educational equity and to identify the key challenges and benefits associated with its practice in the Sri Lankan context. Method: This exploratory study was conducted in the Kandy District from January to March 2024. The research involved one special education school and four general education schools. A qualitative methodology was adopted, with data collected through teacher interviews, structured questionnaires, and direct classroom observations. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: The study revealed several critical barriers to the successful implementation of inclusive education; teachers in 4 out of 5 schools reported a lack of essential resources such as learning aids, accessible infrastructure, and specialized equipment, over 60% of participants expressed concern about inadequate training for teaching students with special needs, classroom observations indicated a reliance on exam-oriented, teacher-centered methods, with limited use of inclusive teaching strategies, teachers also identified negative societal attitudes, including peer discrimination and low levels of parental involvement, as major challenges. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the need for systemic improvements to support inclusive education. Recommendations include implementing targeted teacher training programs, raising public awareness about inclusive practices, and providing assistive technologies such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, and Braille devices. Additionally, a shift toward student-centered pedagogy is crucial for enhancing learning outcomes. These efforts are essential to ensure that inclusive education contributes effectively to equitable educational development in Sri Lanka.