Parents of children within the autism spectrum : perspectives and experiences of inclusive education in Malta

Abstract

This qualitative research aims to give a voice to parents of children within the autism spectrum, whilst exploring their understanding, perspectives, and experiences of inclusive education. Six participants who are parents of children between 10-16 years of age and who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum condition for at least three years, were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. The data was then analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. From the analysis, four themes emerged, each with respective subthemes: (1) Parents’ Insights of Inclusive Education; (2) Parents and their Relationships with School Personnel; (3) Educational Support; and (4) Emotional Challenges. Through these themes, it can be noted that four out of six participants disclosed that their school experience was a positive one, while two participants stated that their school experience was negative. Based on the participants’ insights, it can be concluded that they collectively acknowledge that what is offered at school is not genuine inclusive education and that their children’s schooling fall shorts of a truly inclusive education. Moreover, parents who sent their children to specialised programmes reflected that this was caused due to the lack of implementation of inclusive practices within mainstream schools. Nevertheless, in the present day and the future, barriers faced by children within the autism spectrum and their parents, still need to be overcome to provide them with better support. Discriminatory ideologies and misconceptions also need to be challenged, to improve inclusive education for all children in the Maltese educational system.