research-Library2-
research-Library2-
Catanauan, Quezon
(Formerly Luzonian Standard High School)
Learning Barriers and Implementing Effective Strategies for Students with Disabilities
A. RATIONALE
Inclusive education makes it possible for all students, including those with disabilities, to
learn together in regular classrooms. However, many junior high schools still face challenges in
giving students with disabilities the support they need. These students often deal with learning
barriers like a lack of teaching materials, limited teacher training, and negative attitudes from
Although inclusive education has gained strong support both globally and nationally,
many junior high schools continue to face significant challenges in providing the necessary
support for students with disabilities. These students often encounter ongoing barriers that affect
not only their academic progress but also their sense of belonging within the school community.
One major concern is the lack of instructional materials that cater to diverse learning needs,
which can result in learning gaps. In addition, many teachers have not received adequate training
in inclusive teaching methods, making it difficult for them to confidently implement strategies
that address these students' unique needs. Further compounding the issue, students with
disabilities may experience unfair treatment or negative attitudes from peers—and in some cases,
from educators—which can contribute to feelings of isolation and low self-worth. These
challenges make it harder for them to fully engage and succeed in school. For this reason, it is
essential for schools to adopt meaningful, inclusive strategies that break down these barriers and
create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
According to the World Health Organization, about one in ten people in the world has a
disability, and many of them struggle to get proper education, especially in places with fewer
resources. These challenges often lead to lower academic performance and fewer opportunities.
Inclusive education has emerged as a global priority; every nation promotes rights for
every learner, regardless of abilities, race, life status, and other related matters. According to
Graham (2020), scholars in the field of inclusive education have been hesitant to define
inclusion. It is frequently referred to as a process rather than a location or as a journey rather than
a destination. Meanwhile, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO, 2020) stated that inclusive education encompasses everything from curricula to
pedagogy and teaching and aims to identify and eliminate all obstacles to education. Despite
numerous nations implementing actions to promote inclusive education, there are still significant
challenges that remain, particularly in effectively addressing the diverse needs of students with
disabilities, especially junior high school students. In connection, many junior high schools still
face challenges in giving students with disabilities the support they need. These students often
deal with learning barriers like a lack of teaching materials, limited teacher training, and negative
attitudes from others, which can make it harder for them to succeed in school.
According to Gilmour et al. (2019), students with disabilities are often three years
behind in reading compared to their classmates without disabilities. Also, the Australian Bureau
of Statistics reported that young people with disabilities are more likely to leave school early and
less likely to earn a college degree. Inclusive education is more than just putting students with
disabilities in the same classroom as others—it means giving them the right support so they can
truly participate and succeed. According to Bulat et al. (2015), using strategies like Universal
Design for Learning (UDL) and Response to Intervention (RTI) helps make lessons more
inclusive and useful for all students, including those with physical, sensory, or intellectual
disabilities. This research aims to help strengthen inclusive education in junior high schools by
identifying the learning barriers that students with disabilities face and suggesting effective
Students with disabilities in Junior High Schools (JHS) face numerous challenges that
hinder their access to quality education. One significant issue is the lack of resources, as many
schools are not equipped with accessible facilities, appropriate learning materials, or assistive
technologies, which are essential for students with disabilities to learn effectively (Orberta &
Paqueo, 2021). In addition, teacher preparedness and awareness remain problematic, as many
educators report insufficient training in inclusive practices, particularly in areas like sign
language and classroom management for diverse learners. This lack of preparation is
compounded by biases and misconceptions, where some educators and parents view students
with disabilities as burdens or even curses. Another critical issue is the poverty and societal
mindset that affects families, as many choose to keep their children with disabilities at home due
to financial constraints and the belief that education holds little value for them, given the limited
future employment prospects (Ruh Global Impact, 2020). Furthermore, there is a lack of an
inclusive curriculum, as many schools do not have teaching strategies or curricula that cater to
the diverse learning needs of students with disabilities. Lastly, most public schools are not
designed with inclusive school facilities in mind, making it difficult for students with physical
disabilities to access classrooms, bathrooms, and other school resources, further limiting their
underscore the urgent need for reforms to create a more inclusive and supportive learning
In the context of local education in the Philippines, the documentary "Paa, Kamay at
Mata" (2022) by Kara David sheds light on the numerous challenges faced by students with
disabilities in rural areas, particularly in Catanauan, Quezon. One of the primary issues depicted
is the geographical isolation of schools and homes in remote barangays, which forces SPED
teachers and students to cross rivers and navigate difficult terrain just to attend classes. This
highlights the significant physical barriers to education in rural settings. Additionally, the
documentary reveals the scarcity of essential resources, such as assistive devices, learning
materials, and specialized infrastructure, all of which are critical for effective special education.
The limited availability of properly trained SPED educators in these areas further exacerbates the
problem. Overall, the documentary offers a profound look into the struggles faced by students
with disabilities in rural settings, underscoring the urgent need for systemic reforms in special
tackle different complex issues that can hinders inclusive education. Lack of resources in schools
is the major problem faced which impacts assistive technologies, instructional materials, and
accessibility. To address this, Fnu et al., (2023) recommend allocate resources and funds at the
federal, state, county, and school levels for teacher professional development and other facilities
to support inclusion. This emphasized that systematic investment is required to make sure that
the environment are more accommodating for learners with disabilities. Furthermore, one of key
components to have an effective inclusion is teacher awareness and preparedness. That's why
teachers need to possess with both the skills and mindset necessary for handling diverse learners
especially learners with disabilities. In line with this, Alcosero et al., (2023) stated that in order
to successfully integrate and carry out educational activities for children with special educational
needs in the regular classroom, it is advised that regular teachers receive practical training and
programs that offer them professional and psychological support. This kind of assistance can
guarantee that teachers are not only capable but also knowledgeable on how they will handle
diverse learners. Addressing poverty and societal mindset is crucial, socio economic and cultural
prejudices are one of the reason preventing learners with disabilities from obtaining schooling.
Mausom and Choudhary (2016) arguing for the provision of fundamental social and
physical infrastructures for the urban poor and supporting pro-poor inclusive planning as a
means of resolving this inequality. Similarly, according to Luo (2020) that enhancing concept
education and publicity, improving pertinent laws and supporting systems, managing archival
disabled children in assimilating into society are all important. These idea highlights the
importance of not just only supplying physical resources like instructional materials but also
changing societal mindset and strengthening legal systems should be solve. Moreover, it is also
crucial to enhance the curriculum flexibility and inclusivity to support education environment.
Panda (2024) stated that to increase the efficacy of inclusive education and guarantee that all
students have access to high-quality education, strategies such encouraging positive attitudes,
heeding professional advice, making sure there are enough resources, and winning over the
public are offered. This viewpoints reinforced that inclusive education requires not only policy
reforms but also a cultural changes within the educational system and society as a whole.
Lastly, to address the problem in lack of inclusive education facilities, the Philippines
established a law. Which is the Republic Act No. 11650, also known as the “Inclusive Education
Act of 2022” (published on April 11, 2022), stated that every learner with disabilities must have
fair access to high-quality education in all schools, public or private, so that no student is left out.
The basic services and conditions, such as the provision of infrastructure, facilities, and assistive
devices throughout the admissions process, as well as other types of reasonable accommodation,
must be provided by the implementing rules and regulations. This mandates schools to create an
inclusive environment for students with disabilities to prevent any hindrance that students with
integrated into classrooms alongside their non-disabled peers. It also requires public and private
schools to match their settings and policies with inclusive practices. This helps close the gap
between students with and without disabilities. A portal to enlighten society on individuals with
disabilities.
B. RESEARCH QUESTIONS
This study takes a closer look at the real challenges that students with disabilities often face
in junior high school—especially the learning barriers that can hold them back from doing their
best in class. It also looks at the different teaching methods teachers are using to support these
students and tries to find out which ones are actually working well. By hearing directly from
both students and teachers, the goal is to understand how inclusive education plays out in
everyday school life. To help guide this research, the study focuses on the following important
questions:
1. What are the most common learning barriers encountered by Junior High School students
with disabilities?
2. How do learning barriers affect the academic achievement of junior high school students
with disabilities?
3. What are the most effective teaching strategies utilize by teachers in promoting inclusive
4. What are the impact of implementing effective strategies for JHS students with
disabilities?
DISSABILITY
The implementation of inclusive education plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall
quality of education for children and effectively addressing discriminatory attitudes. The
educational approach encompasses integrating students from various backgrounds, promoting the
appreciation of their individual perspectives, and nurturing an environment of mutual respect and
various philosophies, resources, and support systems to cater to the needs of all students.
Educators should possess the essential training, flexibility and help to effectively teach students
with diverse needs. The successful implementation of any initiative relies heavily on three key
factors: financial support, parental empowerment, and community participation (Abutazil, 2023).
Inclusive education in the Philippines means accepting and supporting all students,
including those in Junior High School, no matter their background, ability, or disability. It is
based on the idea that every child has the right to learn in a regular classroom with the right help.
This approach includes children who are gifted, have disabilities, follow the madrasa curriculum,
belong to indigenous groups, or face challenges like illness, abuse, or living in hard-to-reach
places. It involves teamwork among teachers, students, parents, and the community to make sure
The country has made efforts to promote inclusive education through different programs
and laws. The “Inclusive Education for All” program trains teachers, school leaders, and parents
to better support all kinds of learners, including those in Junior High School. DepEd and
UNESCO work together to train teachers on how to include students with disabilities in regular
classes. There are also Special Education (SPED) schools for students with special needs and the
Alternative Learning System (ALS) for those who can’t attend regular classes. These systems
help students learn at their own pace and in a way that fits their situation.
Despite progress, there are still challenges. Schools, including those at the Junior High
School level, need proper facilities like ramps, elevators, Braille books, and sign language
interpreters. Teachers must also be trained to understand different disabilities and how to support
students effectively. Inclusive education is not just about placing students in a classroom—it’s
about making sure they have the tools and support to succeed. With strong teamwork and the
right resources, inclusive education in the Philippines can become a reality for all learners.
LEARNING BARRIERS
Inclusive education gained global recognition as an essential approach that can provide a
quality education for all learners, especially with disabilities. It raise the idea that every learner,
in spite of their physical, intellectual, social, or other conditions, has the right to participate fully
in mainstream education systems. However, learners with special needs still encounter
numerous learning barriers that can hinder access to quality education. These barriers, which
could be structural, mental, social, or physical, often stem from long-standing inequalities within
schools. Even with pressure for broad-based policies and reforms, many institutions of education
are still not well-positioned to meet the special needs of these students. Many researchers
explored the different types of learning barriers faced by learners with special needs in special
education environments. Their studies highlights the need to recognize these learning barriers
and take responsive action so that inclusive education becomes not just a principle but a real and
Mprah et al. (2015) emphasize that the support provided for learners with special needs in
general education is still insufficient. Their study reveals that even policies for inclusive
education existed on paper, the actual implementation is unsuccessful due to lack of resources,
learners with special needs are often left behind in terms of academics and socially, which leads
to experiencing exclusion and isolation within the classroom settings. This deficiency not only
diminishes their right to quality education but also impacts their personal development.
Similarly, the design and creation of learning materials is one of considerable challenges
that a students with disabilities will encounter. Hardini et al. (2022) indicate that textual
materials, comprising text, images, and symbols/numbers, cause obstacles for visually impaired
physical activity. These visually impaired students often rely on braille and audio recordings
materials, yet it is uncommon to include these adjustments into regular classroom education.
Meanwhile, physically impaired students face difficulty in classes requiring movements such as
physical education, hands-on science experiments, and other psychomotor activities. These
difficulties show how differentiating education and redesigning learning environments to meet a
range of physical requirements are crucial for students with special needs.
In addition to materials and instructional barriers, students with special needs often
encounter systemic and attitudinal challenges. Nuri (2024) stated that children with impairments
exclusion for learners with mobility impairments. These barriers reflect wider attitudes and lack
of awareness or sensitivity among educators, school leaders, and communities. The combination
that can result in students with special needs' motivation and self-esteem.
In rural areas, the learning barriers are often more severe in different situations.
Chirowamhangu (2024) examined the condition of special needs education in rural settings and
found several problems that hinder the the access of equality education, such as structural and
logistical. These include a lack of inclusive schools, lack of scholar transportation, low
enrollment rates, and a severe lack of psychosocial and expert support. The findings indicate that
rural regions necessitate focused interventions and increased investment to address the
requirements of special education students. Without intended actions, students with special needs
in rural regions will continue to face unequal access to educational opportunities compared to
urban counterparts. More inclusive schools in rural areas should be established, more specialist
teachers should be hired and trained, availability of accessible transportation should be made,
and infrastructure that can overcome the problem for learners with special needs should be
established. In addition, building lasting support systems and mobilizing resources to support
inclusive education in rural regions can be highly facilitated by inter-cooperation between local
As learners with special needs, they encounter problems in the progress of the
postsecondary education, presenting different learning barriers. During this transition, students
independence, which can be difficult without sufficient assistance. Nornor (2023) emphasizes the
seven recurring themes of obstacles faced by students with special needs as they go from
secondary to postsecondary education. These themes include social stigma and discrimination,
financial difficulties, educational and institutional difficulties, family influence and background,
personal and psychological difficulties, institutional and policy difficulties, and accessibility and
accommodation difficulties. These learning barriers show how difficult it is to make the move to
college from junior high school students and how important it is to take a comprehensive
approach that takes into account both the academic and extracurricular facets of student life. The
study emphasizes that many students with impairments find it difficult to make educational
transitions in the absence of organized support networks. In order to facilitate easier transitions,
it is crucial to implement inclusive practices like academic advising, peer mentoring, orientation
programs, and the use of assistive technology while students are in secondary level. Institutions
need to understand that inclusive education is more than just providing students physical access.
It also involves developing a welcoming educational environment that respects and encourages
Lastly, Abebe (2023) stated that psychosocial, physical, systemic, and resource-related
learning barriers significantly hinder educational access and participation of students with special
needs. These include a lack of classroom materials, a shortage of assistive technology, a lack of
teacher and peer understanding, and emotional distress caused by being perceived as different
due to their impairments. For students with special needs, these barriers may create an
unmotivated and uncomfortable learning environment. Institutions often lack the capacity and
preparedness to create inclusive classroom environments or provide relevant solutions. This lack
from valuable learning opportunities. Students could continue to face lifetime marginalization in
educational and social contexts without targeted support and institutional reform. To ensure that
all students have an equal chance to succeed, eliminating these barriers is not only a moral
imperative but also an educational imperative. It is important to recognize the numerous barriers
to learning faced by a students with disabilities because these directly and often substantially
Education is often refered to as society equilizer due to its potential to foster both
intellectual and personal growth. But, year after year he exclusion of diverse students groups and
disadvantaged Communities has been a problem in educational institutions around the word such
as those with dissabilities, individuals of various ethnic backgrounds, and individuals with lower
Learning barriers can have an affect on the academic performance and achievement of
Junior High School students with dissabilities According to Savarimuthu et al., 2021, students
with dissabilities are the more disadvantaged and excluded minority in every modern society.
Additionally, it draw attention to the serious issue of inequality and mor discrimination that these
kids experience during different facet various elements of life, including education, medical
treatment and social interaction. Consequently, it is clear that students with dissabilities have
difficulty acquire equitable access to high quality education (Singh et al., 2020).
One common barier is the negative/bad attitude of some teachers. Inclusive education can
including the widespread use of inclusive policies, elevated standards, and excellent instruction
method (Krischler et al., 2019). However, negative emotions encourage separations and reduce
the likelihood that everyone possibility that every one will have equitable access to education.
To sum up and makes things better, educators must provide training, tools, and other
helpful guidance to create a succesful learning environments ( Hernandez - Saca et al., 2023).
When students with disabilities are treated unfairly, ignored, or unnoticed, they may feel
sad,embarrassed or lose confidence. This can stop them from speaking up in class, asking
questions, or joining group activities, which are all important for learning.
Another barrier is the lack of learning materials that match their needs. Maddox (2015)
reported that teachers face challenges in finding for material resources for their lessons. Sample
learning materials are a necessity for both teachers and students in effective employment of DI.
For example, students who are blind or have poor evesight may not be able to read regular
textbooks or see picture... This problem and difficulty experienced by these students calls for
more teachers in special needs education, who are skilled and proficient in the implementation of
their job duties (Agesa, 2015). If there are no braille books, large print books, audio materials or
proper visual aids, these students will find it diffically difficult to comprehend and understand
the lesson. In addition to that, students with physical dissabilities may not be able to join in P.E.
subject or group task subjects that requires physical movement. To support this, a report by
Paralympics GB (2024) revealed that only 25% of disabled children in the UK regularly
participate in PE, compared to 41% of their non-disabled peers. This proved that students with
dissabilities sometimes left behind in some physical tasks. This underscores the need for more
inclusive practices within PE programs to ether enhance self-esteem and promote equal
Students with disabilities continue to face significant learning barriers that limit their
academic success and emotional well-being. Despite the promise of education as a tool for
equality, many schools still fall short in providing the support these learners need. Negative
attitudes from teachers, lack of inclusive training, and unwelcoming classroom environments can
leave students feeling isolated, unmotivated, and unseen. When students are treated unfairly or
excluded from class participation, it deeply affects their confidence and willingness to engage
In addition, the lack of proper learning materials and adapted resources creates even more
challenges. Without tools like braille books, large-print texts, audio aids, or physical
accommodations, students with disabilities are left behind. This becomes especially visible in
subjects like physical education or group activities, where accessibility is often overlooked. To
truly level the playing field, schools must embrace inclusive practices, invest in special education
resources, and foster a culture where every learner regardless of ability, feels valued, supported,
TEACHING STRATEGIES
Inclusive education has emerged globally as an essential approach for providing equal
learning opportunities to all students, especially those with disabilities. While policies promoting
inclusion lay an important foundation, their real impact is determined by how teachers apply
these principles in their classrooms. This is particularly important in junior high schools, where
students begin to face greater academic demands and more complex social environments.
Research highlights a number of practical, evidence-based strategies that help strengthen the
One of the most fundamental strategies for fostering inclusion is the establishment of a
welcoming school culture that actively embraces acceptance, empathy, and respect for all
students, including those with disabilities. Without such an environment, inclusive efforts often
fall short, as students are unlikely to thrive in spaces where they do not feel valued. Boakye and
Tekpertey (2025) highlight the strong connection between a welcoming school atmosphere and
the increased enrollment of students with disabilities. Effective strategies for building a
inclusive language, and ensuring that school leadership visibly and actively supports diversity.
When teachers and staff are sentized to the unique needs and experiences of students with
disabilities, schools can become places where all learners have the opportunity to grow both
mainstream classrooms; it requires thoughtful teaching practices that genuinely address the
diverse ways students learn. When instruction is rigid or overly standardized, many students—
particularly those with disabilities—can be left behind. When instruction is rigid and
In their study, Boakye and Tekpertey (2025) reported that 71.2% of teachers used inclusive
activities. These practices are closely aligned with the principles of Universal Design for
Learning (UDL), which emphasizes offering multiple ways for students to engage with material
and demonstrate their understanding, making education more accessible to every learner.
While curriculum and instruction often receive the most attention in conversations about
inclusion, physical accessibility is just as vital—and often overlooked. No matter how well
teaching strategies are designed, students cannot fully participate if the school environment itself
creates barriers. Schools that lack accessible facilities unintentionally exclude students with
physical or sensory disabilities, even if they have inclusive policies in place. Boakye and
Tekpertey (2025) observed that schools in the Kadjebi District that made infrastructure
lighting and layouts—saw greater participation from students with physical disabilities. Still,
they emphasize that removing physical barriers is only part of the solution; genuine inclusion
also depends on inclusive teaching practices and positive attitudes among staff.
Teacher readiness plays a key role in the success of inclusive education. No matter how
well-intentioned they are, teachers often find it challenging to meet the diverse needs of their
students without the right training and support. Building an inclusive education system means
putting real effort into professional development for teachers. Boakye and Tekpertey (2025)
highlight just how important specialized training is, particularly in areas like Special Education
(SpED), Guidance and Counselling, and gender-sensitive teaching methods. When teachers have
the proper knowledge, skills, and resources, they are much better prepared to turn inclusive
Teachers' views on students with disabilities significantly influence the decisions they
take in their classrooms. When teachers emphasize students’ strengths instead of their
weaknesses, they are far more likely to create environments where every learner feels valued and
included. Even the most well-crafted inclusive strategies may fail if they lack true positive
beliefs supporting them. As per Boakye and Tekpertey (2025), educators that take asset-based
viewpoints are more inclined to accept inclusive teaching methods. Cultivating these positive
attitudes frequently arises from reflective practice, mentoring connections, and practical
experience with varied student groups. A school culture that truly supports inclusion is essential
in fostering these beliefs and assisting teachers in upholding high expectations for every student.
2017, and Reid et al. (2018), education is the primary need of every individual because all
persons with disabilities have the right to education, even if they have disabilities, to enable them
Students with disabilities deserve our respect because they have feelings too and have the right to
education. Therefore, they need a conducive environment to study effectively. They need
inclusive education, which can greatly contribute to shaping and upholding their human rights.
Inclusive education helps them in building their rights and contributes to a fairer and more
inclusive society (Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, 2016; United Nations
International Children's Emergency Fund [UNICEF], 2017). On the other hand, IE is essential
for them to attain quality education for students, whether with special needs or not, as it ensures
access to education without discrimination and with proper support (United Nations International
positive educational environment, providing an opportunity for each student to participate and
achieve their full academic, social, emotional, and physical potential (Canadian Research Centre
on Inclusive Education, n.d.; New Brunswick Association for Community Living, n.d.; United
Nations Division for Social Policy and Development and Department of Economic and Social
According to Mitchell (2010) and Parekh and Brown (2019), children with disabilities
and special needs in inclusive educational settings are less likely to experience limited academic
Over the past 10 years, there have been literature reviews focusing on the experiences of
children without disabilities or special needs in inclusive settings (de Boer et al., 2012; Yu et al.,
On the other hand, a recent systematic review revealed that children without disabilities
often have positive attitudes toward their peers with disabilities and special needs; they
demonstrate social acceptance, empathy, and concern for these peers. However, the existence of
a separate special education unit within schools may have a negative impact on their attitudes
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (United Nations, 2015) and the
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (United Nations, 2006) promote equal
access to education for people with disabilities and recognize their right to education.
including public buildings, is essential to ensure they are accessible and meet the needs of all
Persons with disabilities should be treated equally in the field of education because they
possess their own talents and abilities. A supportive environment can help motivate them to
study. Inclusive education is a means to support them, as its goal is to assist students with special
needs. Full inclusion is a policy wherein any student with disabilities should receive proper
education in a regular classroom within their community school (LDDA, 2017). It emphasizes
that students with special needs should be placed in a regular class with the necessary support
and special services from the school when appropriate. This is considered an ideal model for
creating genuine and effective inclusion (Warren, Martinez & Sortino, 2016). However,
according to Kauffman and Badar (2017, p. 55), "The idea that all students, with or without
disabilities, should be taught together in the same class and school is something that should be
valued." According to Hatlen (2017), the term "responsible inclusion" emphasizes the
importance of placing a student in an appropriate educational environment that truly delivers the
Teachers play a critical role in adapting methods to address the diverse needs of students.
Studies show that teachers' confidence in their abilities (teacher self-efficacy) is associated with
their capacity to effectively develop inclusive strategies (Vantieghem et al., 2023). Professional
2024). Moreover, teachers' positive perspectives on inclusive education and their belief in their
responsibility to embrace diversity among students are crucial (Santarosa et al., 2021).
Researchers have found that collaboration among teachers, parents, and support staff is vital for
readiness (Monteiro & Ikegami, 2023). However, teacher preparation remains insufficient in
some areas due to resource constraints (Erni & Dewi, 2024). Teachers' ability to manage diverse
classrooms, especially those with disabilities, depends on skills such as collaboration, problem-
solving, and fostering student engagement (Jardinez & Natividad, 2024). Ultimately, support
from administrators and policymakers is essential to empower teachers to face the challenges of
challenges they face in promoting inclusivity. Research shows that teacher self-efficacy plays an
important role in addressing the diverse needs of students in inclusive classrooms (Vantieghem
et al., 2023). Specific aspects such as self-help skills, social skills, and academic skills require
teachers to have advanced pedagogical strategies and the ability to adapt (Palei, 2024). Teachers
often struggle with these aspects, according to Mabanag et al. (2024). Developing social skills in
acceptance and teaching students to avoid bullying, an area where teachers often feel unprepared
(Tampubolon et al., 2023). Similarly, ensuring the development of academic skills necessitates
differentiated instruction and individualized learning plans, which many teachers find difficult to
design and implement effectively (Erni & Dewi, 2024). Teachers also encounter logistical
barriers such as resource shortages, large class sizes, and insufficient administrative support
(Jardinez & Natividad, 2024). While collaborative teaching models and ongoing professional
development have been suggested as solutions to these challenges, their implementation remains
uneven (Monteiro & Ikegami, 2023). Without adequate training in areas such as boosting self-
efficacy, addressing self-help challenges, and developing social and academic skills, teachers
often feel unprepared to meet the demands of inclusive classrooms (Poly & Harishma, 2023).
policymakers, shed light on the broader ecosystem of inclusive education (Hoque & Nasrin,
2023). For teachers, these approaches provide practical insights into improving their readiness
and effectiveness in inclusive classrooms. Students, on the other hand, benefit from enhanced
learning experiences and better social inclusion when teachers are more prepared to address their
diverse needs. Policymakers can use these findings to design more effective professional
According to van Steen and Wilson (2020), as schools become more inclusive, teachers
must adjust and modify their methods to meet the needs of all students. Teachers rely on
meaningful professional development to improve or acquire new skills and strategies. Martin et
al. (2019) demonstrated that professional development guides inclusive education teachers in
making instructional strategy changes, which can lead to student success. Providing teachers
them to learn effective strategies and assess their current teaching practices by collaborating with
Positive attitudes of teachers have a significant impact because they are the ones who
teach and demonstrate what students need to learn. They reflect the knowledge of students,
whether with disabilities or not. Teachers' perspectives are crucial in motivating their students to
study well. Teaching students with disabilities is challenging, especially if the teacher lacks the
necessary skills and broad understanding. Teachers should have adequate knowledge and skills
about the best teaching practices and instructional capabilities for LSENs (Learners with Special
Educational Needs), as well as a positive attitude to create an effective inclusive classroom (Byrd
& Alexander, 2020; Savage & Erten, 2015). In a study by Mngo and Mngo (2018), which
focused on the opinions of regular high school teachers involved in a pilot inclusive education
program in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, they found that most teachers preferred teaching
in SPED centers rather than inclusive classrooms. Their analysis revealed that teachers with
more experience, higher education, and adequate training have a more positive perception of
inclusion compared to those who lack experience and are not well-versed in the aspects of
inclusive education.
regarding LSENs and the implementation of inclusive education in their country. They also
examined the abilities and challenges teachers face when teaching LSENs in inclusive
classrooms. Most teachers believed that proper training for teachers and improving accessibility
require full support from the administration, as well as the availability of appropriate materials to
meet students' needs. They also mentioned architectural barriers and the lack of an inclusive
approach as major obstacles in improving the situation. As a result, they recommended providing
in-depth training on special educational needs for teachers who will focus on LSENs. Similarly,
Paguirigan (2020) found that many teachers who handle students with special needs are
unfamiliar with the concept of inclusion and lack the skills to manage inclusive classes. Teachers
noted challenges such as bullying, lack of infrastructure, and limited resources, and
recommended seminars and training for teachers before they are assigned to teach inclusive
classes.
Thika East District in Kenya, which aimed to explore teachers' perspectives on inclusive
education, it was found that most teachers had a positive view of focusing on students in
mainstream classrooms. They agreed that LSENs are capable of interacting with others and
Teachers' perspectives on inclusion are a key factor in the success of inclusive programs
(Parchomuik, 2019). An unfavorable attitude towards inclusion can create barriers and weaken
the implementation of inclusion programs (Cansiz & Cansiz, 2018). Teachers often exhibit
unfavorable attitudes when they feel overwhelmed or exhausted by their efforts to create a
successful and supportive environment for all students (Engin, 2020). A positive attitude and
proper preparation of teachers are essential to address the challenges of inclusive education and
education for Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSENs) can foster a positive outlook
toward this program. One of the crucial factors for the successful implementation of inclusive
education is the teachers’ skills and readiness in teaching and interacting with LSENs
Moreover, it is essential to ensure that school support is not only focused on the students
but also extends to parents, caregivers, and especially regular teachers and special education
(SPED) teachers, as they are the primary pillars of inclusion (McManis, 2017).
However, many teachers express doubts about their ability to handle LSENs, particularly
in the context of inclusive classrooms. Despite this, it has been found that teachers with more
experience in such environments develop a more positive perspective regarding their capabilities
III. CONCLUSIONS
Conclusion Based on the gathered data, the following conclusions were drawn:
1. Inclusive education is essential to ensuring that students with disabilities in junior high
participation, and the ability to achieve academic success alongside their peers.
2. Despite ongoing efforts, several obstacles continue to impede the full realization of
inclusive education. Among these are the scarcity of instructional resources, a lack of
societal perceptions.
3. The effectiveness of inclusive education greatly depends on the skills and dispositions of
educators. It is essential that teachers undergo targeted training, continually update their
professional knowledge, and cultivate inclusive attitudes to respond adeptly to the varied
systemic changes, reinforced by strong legal measures such as Republic Act No. 11650
(Inclusive Education Act of 2022). These mandates emphasize the necessity of adequate
5. The adoption of inclusive strategies — such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL),
IV. RECOMMENDATIONS
This study concludes with the following recommendations to enhance the implementation
of inclusive education:
such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Response to Intervention (RTI).
2. Improve accessibility and infrastructure to ensure that learners can participate without
3. Ensure that include education policies are implemented produce realiable plans and
monitor regularly.
can reduce stigma and create more inclusive culture especially in rural areas.
5. Produce programs that build awareness among students, teachers, and parents about the
inclusive education. Activities such as inclusive events, peer education, and classroom
discussions can promote positive attitudes about learners with special needs.
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Presented t
In Partial Fulfillment
“Academic Writing”
________________________
Submitted by:
Camposano, Benjie D.
Labaguez, Jade
Estorninos, Twinkle