TRACKING ATTITUDINAL SHIFTS IN SPECIAL EDUCATORS OVER THE DURATION OF SAKSHAM ENGAGEMENT

Abstract

The success of inclusive education in India depends largely on the attitudes and preparedness of special educators. Although national policies like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) and the National Education Policy (2020) promote inclusive practices, the role of continuous professional development in shaping these attitudes is not well studied. This research aims to track how special educators’ attitudes change over time through them involvement in the Saksham program—a capacity- building initiative by Samagra Shiksha, School Education Department, Government of Tripura, in partnership with ICFAI University Tripura.

The study explores how ongoing engagement with Saksham influences educators’ beliefs, perceptions, and willingness to teach in inclusive classrooms. Data will be collected at three points—before, during, and after the program—using attitude surveys and personal interviews. Statistical tools will be used to measure changes in attitudes, while qualitative methods will help understand the reasons behind those changes.

On 26 th July, 2021 Saksham Tripura project is Lunched. ICFAI University Tripura is a major partner of this pilot Project Rehabilitation council of India special educators, mentors and Project Coordinator working all are registered professional from Rehabilitation with Central Rehabilitation Registration Number. All special educators are giving service four schools It is expected that educators will show positive shifts in their attitudes, influenced by the program’s training modules, peer discussions, and opportunities for reflection. Topics in the program include inclusive teaching strategies, disability awareness, assistive technologies, and rights-based education. The study will provide useful insights into how targeted training can support inclusive education and offer suggestions for improving such programs across the Country.