Factors which enhance or hinder meeting the educational needs of autistic children in Western Cape province, South Africa: A parents’ perspective
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Date
2018
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Special Education
Abstract
There is growing interest in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as a result of the increasing
prevalence rates, and because children with ASD find it particularly challenging to enter the
educational system. The present study explored the perceptions of parents of ASD children by
identifying the factors which enhanced or hindered their children in receiving quality education.
Four focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with 10 purposively selected participants
per discussion group. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data. Data were
analysed using ATLAS.ti. The key themes which evolved were: developmental and educational
awareness and support (enhancement); the education system (hindrance); developing the
capacities of teachers with specialised training (hindrance); and financial needs (hindrance).
The present study recognizes that there are enhancements and hindrances that affect children
with ASD and their educational development.
Description
Keywords
Autism Spectrum Disorder, Parent’s perceptions, Educational needs, Barriers to learning
Citation
Mithimunye, B.S., Roman, N.V., & Pedro, A.S. (2018). Factors Which Enhance or Hinder Meeting the Educational Needs of Autistic Children in Western Cape Province, South Africa: A Parents' Perspective. International Journal of Special Education, 33(2), 279-294.