Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies

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Browsing Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies by browse.metadata.advisor "Gubela, M. J. I."

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    The functioning of primary school learners with paraplegia/paraparesis in mainstream schools : an exploratory study
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2005) Vosloo, San-Marie; Gubela, M. J. I.; Visagie, S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences. Centre for Rehabilitation Studies.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: South African policy and legislation demands inclusive education for learners with disabilities. According to the Department of Education, learners who can satisfactorily be educated in an ordinary school must be accommodated there. It is however unclear to what extend accommodations are made at the level of schools to ensure inclusion. The purpose of this study is to determine the level of participation of a group of learners with paraplegia/paraparesis in mainstream schools in the Western Cape. Furthermore the contextual factors that hinder or facilitate their participation will be identified. The Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique and the Craig Hospital Inventory of Environmental Factors were used as measuring instruments. The study population comprised 15 primary school learners with paraplegia/paraparesis, their parents and relevant class teachers. Results were statistically analysed with the ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. A p value of >0.05 was seen as statistically significant. Results showed that cognitive dependence and decreased mobility restricted the participation of learners most. Insufficient preparation and traininq oL teachers, architectural barriers and poor accommodation into physical activities were the biggest barriers to successful inclusion. Findings from this convenient, small and homogenous sample suggest the existence of major barriers. Therefore a comprehensive research project is advised to ease the process of inclusion and ensure its successfulness. Furthermore the education authorities should develop and implement a uniform selection process and referral system in order to channel learners to the correct facility according to their needs.