LIVED EXPERIENCES OF LEARNERS LIVING WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES IN SELECTED INCLUSIVE PRIMARY SCHOOLS OF ELGEIYO MARAKWET COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences of learners living with physical disabilities in selected inclusive primary schools of Elgeiyo Marakwet County, Kenya. The purpose of this study was to explore these learners’ experiences of inclusion and exclusion. Participants in this study were purposively selected. Phenomenological design and participatory visual methodologies were used to generate data in this study. Data were analysed thematically using the guidelines for thematic analysis. This study revealed that learners living with physical disabilities were included and treated well in school. However, they also reported being excluded and neglected in a few instances. These learners besides exclusion in school also reported being neglected, discriminated and marginalised at home. Inadequate teacher training, unfriendly subject content, and less time for learning and assessment were reported as some of the challenges they faced in school. This study concluded that an inclusive primary school environment was better for learners living with disabilities compared to home. Moreover, retrogressive cultural beliefs were a major hindrance to their schooling and education. This study recommends that prospective teachers be trained on how to teach learners living with disabilities in inclusive primary schools. Teachers, pupils, parents and the general community to be sensitised on how to treat, and relate with learners living with physical disabilities at home and school.