A Mixed-Methods Study Describing the Experiences of Elementary Students with Complex Support Needs in Inclusive Settings

Few students with complex support needs are taught in general education (inclusive) classrooms for most of their school day, despite evidence inclusive educational placement benefit students. To better understand how students with complex support needs experience inclusive academic learning, we observed a national sample of 35 students with complex support needs using time sampling and fieldnote data in this convergent parallel mixed-methods study to describe (a) the ecobehavioral characteristics of classrooms, (b) the learning activities occurring in classrooms, and (c) how the materials, supports, and learning activities explain student experiences in these classrooms. Our data revealed that students were primarily engaged in grade-appropriate academic activities, were taught primarily by paraprofessionals and general education teachers, and were taught in classrooms with a variety of grade-appropriate materials and resources. Implications of these findings for research and practice are provided.