1. Learning disabilities in India: A closer look at pre-service teacher development practices.
- Author
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Misquitta, Radhika, Panshikar, Apoorva, and Hassaram, Bindiya
- Subjects
CHILDREN with learning disabilities ,EXCEPTIONAL children ,LEARNING disabilities ,TEACHER education ,EDUCATIONAL psychologists ,TEACHER development - Abstract
This paper critically examines the centrally administered pre-service teacher preparation program for learning disabilities in India. With no equivalent Indian competency standards, this paper analyses components of the teacher preparation curriculum in the light of 22 high leverage practices (HLPs) outlined by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) as well as examines interview data from teacher educators to better understand challenges on the ground. Overall, the paper notes a heavy emphasis on theory over practice, with limited opportunities for practice. HLPs related to social-emotional and behavioral practices were minimally addressed in the curriculum. Finally, although the program was dedicated to serving children with learning disabilities, prospective teachers tended to get placed in inclusive settings and were required to work with students with a range of disabilities, highlighting the need for a program with a wider range of disabilities, not only learning disabilities. Implications for school and educational psychologists are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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