Students with disability learning foreign languages : a student with cerebral palsy learning French

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation was to document the case of a student afflicted by cerebral palsy. The case study investigated how the student attending a mainstream secondary school was being integrated into the school community. The particular focus of the study were the lessons of French. Interviews with the headteacher, teachers and facilitators illustrated all the necessary preparations made by the school to create an inclusive environment. An interview with the special girl's parents highlighted her physical and emotional development and their effect on her academic performance. Interviews were also conducted with representatives of the Maltese political parties and organisations supporting the learning and inclusion of people with disability. The aim of these interviews was to yield information about the views of the political parties and Maltese organisations on the issue of disability and inclusive education. The study outlined important issues involved in learning and participation of students with impairment within an inclusive setting.