Qualitative Research on Changes in Conceptions of Disability by Non-Disabled Preschoolers in the Inclusive Classroom

통합학급 일반유아의 장애인식 변화에 대한 질적 연구

In this study of the formation of concepts of inclusion by non-disabled preschoolers in inclusive classroom settings, the researcher conducted participant observation and in-depth interviews from March 2004 through June 2005 in a single day care center offering inclusive education in Kyung-gi Province. The non-disabled children exhibited changes in their conception of disability through interactions with disabled children. The non-disabled children could be grouped into three categories: those who were wary of or disregarded disabled peers; those who disregarded disabled peers while helping them out; and those who actively cared for their disabled peers. Not all children went through the same developmental stages. The speed and degree of change in conception varied depending on the individual.