The inclusion of a child with cerebral palsy in a state primary schools

Abstract

The present research is a case study that evaluates the inclusive educational setting of a boy with cerebral palsy within the mainstream school particularly in the educational and the social domain. The research methods employed were of a qualitative and quantitative nature. Qualitative research was carried out through the use of observations of the child in the educational setting and interviews to the child himself, his parents and to professionals who assessed him periodically. Quantitative study was accomplished by administering a sociometric test to the child' peers that focused on the dynamics of the relationship of the child with them. Questionnaires were also provided to his teacher and facilitator as well as to the parents of the child's peers. In addition, professionals provided assessment reports that enabled the researcher to compile the child's developmental profile that helped to put more light on this study. The end result showed that the child is successfully included in certain aspects of school life mainly in educational achievement, school adjustment and social inclusion whereas he needs some more consideration in the area of individual programming.