Background of the study
Teachers’ attitudes are pivotal in determining the success of inclusive education, particularly when integrating students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. In Jalingo LGA, Taraba State, the integration process is significantly influenced by the perceptions and attitudes of teachers, who are the primary implementers of inclusive education policies. Positive teacher attitudes create an environment of acceptance, support, and effective learning, whereas negative attitudes can lead to practices that marginalize students with disabilities (Emeka, 2023). Over the years, educational reforms have emphasized the importance of teacher training and professional development to promote inclusive practices. Despite these initiatives, many educators continue to face challenges that contribute to ambivalent or negative attitudes. Factors such as limited exposure to inclusive teaching practices, insufficient training, and prevailing cultural stereotypes about disability play a substantial role (Usman, 2024). In some instances, teachers feel unprepared to manage the diverse needs of students with disabilities, which leads to reluctance in fully integrating these students into regular classrooms. The educational landscape in Jalingo LGA mirrors national trends, where the shift towards inclusive education is met with mixed reactions among educators. While some teachers embrace the challenges and opportunities, others express concerns over resource inadequacies and support systems necessary for successful integration. Empirical studies have demonstrated that adequate support and professional development can transform teacher attitudes, resulting in improved outcomes for students with disabilities (Bello, 2025). This study aims to critically assess teacher attitudes in Jalingo LGA, examining the factors that shape these attitudes and the subsequent impact on classroom practices. The findings are expected to provide insights into effective interventions that can enhance teacher readiness and foster an inclusive educational environment.
Statement of the problem
Despite the recognized benefits of inclusive education, many teachers in Jalingo LGA, Taraba State, exhibit ambivalent or negative attitudes toward integrating students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. Contributing factors include inadequate training, limited resources, and deeply entrenched cultural perceptions regarding disability (Emeka, 2023). Such attitudes adversely affect classroom practices, leading to the marginalization of students with disabilities and limiting their academic and social participation. The lack of comprehensive professional development programs that focus specifically on inclusive teaching exacerbates this problem, leaving many educators feeling unprepared to address the diverse needs of all students (Usman, 2024). This gap between policy mandates for inclusion and the actual preparedness of teachers creates significant barriers to effective integration. Consequently, students with disabilities may experience reduced participation, lower self-esteem, and compromised academic outcomes. Addressing these challenges requires an in-depth investigation into the underlying causes of teacher attitudes, as well as the development of targeted interventions designed to improve preparedness and foster a more positive, inclusive classroom climate (Bello, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
To evaluate the attitudes of teachers toward integrating students with disabilities in Jalingo LGA.
To identify the factors influencing teacher attitudes and perceptions of inclusion.
To propose interventions aimed at improving teacher readiness for inclusive education.
Research questions:
What are the prevailing attitudes of teachers regarding the integration of students with disabilities?
What factors influence teacher perceptions and readiness for inclusive education?
How can professional development programs enhance teacher attitudes toward inclusion?
Research Hypotheses:
H1: Positive teacher attitudes are significantly associated with effective integration of students with disabilities.
H2: Inadequate training and resource limitations negatively impact teacher attitudes.
H3: Targeted professional development significantly improves teacher perceptions of inclusion.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it examines teacher attitudes toward integrating students with disabilities in Jalingo LGA, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities of inclusive education. The research aims to inform policymakers and educators about effective strategies for improving teacher preparedness and fostering a positive learning environment. The findings will contribute to the development of tailored professional development programs and interventions that promote inclusive practices, ultimately enhancing educational outcomes and social integration for students with disabilities.
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to the assessment of teacher attitudes toward integrating students with disabilities in Jalingo LGA, Taraba State, focusing on factors influencing perceptions and readiness for inclusion.
Definitions of terms:
Teacher Attitudes: Beliefs and perceptions held by educators regarding the integration of students with disabilities.
Inclusive Education: An approach that integrates all students, regardless of disability, into mainstream classrooms.
Professional Development: Training and education provided to teachers to enhance their skills in inclusive teaching practices.
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