Tailoring Pre-Service Teacher Training Program in Local Context for Special Education Needs of Learners

Abstract

The study identified and described the need for a pre-service teacher training program specifically designed for learners with special educational needs (SEN) in the Philippine Local context, leading to the development of such program. Respondents included 120 basic education school administrators, 22 Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs), 245 students, and 245 parents. Utilizing a mixed-method approach that included surveys and unstructured interviews, the study found an almost absence of SEN clinics or therapy centers both within and outside school premises. Consequently, SEN learners are mainstreamed with regular students. Furthermore, none of the surveyed TEIs offered a pre-service teacher training program for SEN. Respondents-school administrators, TEIs, students, and parents- expressed positive views on the developed program, believing it would provide more opportunities for future teachers interested in SEN education. School administrators are confident that the program will address the long-term need for skilled teachers capable of providing quality education to young learners with SEN within basic education and other inclusive education agencies, clinics, and centers in the Philippines. The pre-service teacher training program includes carefully designed pedagogical and specialized courses to thoroughly prepare future SEN teachers. The program underwent a rigorous approval process and is now sanctioned for implementation within the research locale.