The preparation of school teachers to stimulate the socialization of students with autism in conditions of inclusion

Abstract

Basic Education teachers have expressed concern about the inclusion of learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder, due to children’s lack of social skills, stereotypical behaviors, and restricted interests. The objective of this study was to describe and compare the current state of preparation of Elementary School teachers to stimulate the socialization of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in inclusive schools. In the light of a quantitative methodology, a descriptive-comparative cross-sectional study was carried out. Seventy-four teachers (52 women and 22 men) in charge of fulfilling the teaching-educational role of attending to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in conditions of inclusion in a Western province of Cuba were studied. The age ranged from 22 to 57 years. A previously validated questionnaire and Observation Sheet were applied to measure teachers’ theoretical-methodological and practical preparation. The results show that teachers have difficulties in stimulating the socialization of learners with autism in inclusive schools. Likewise, the academic degree, the experience in inclusive educational spaces and the disciplinary area turned out to be sociodemographic variables that determine the preparation of the teachers to fulfill this educational task. These results provide key information to design strategies and action plans, both in initial training and in daily practice, in order to enhance the theoretical and practical skills of teachers who take on this challenge.