The Challenges and Solution Proposals for Teachers from Non-Special Education Fields Working with Intellectually Disabled Students

Abstract This study aims to determine the experiences, challenges, and solution proposals of teachers from non-special education fields who work with intellectually disabled students. The research was conducted with 10 teachers employed at two different private special education institutions serving intellectually disabled children on the European side of Istanbul. In the study, data were collected from teachers working with students with intellectual disabilities using a semi-structured interview form, which was developed based on literature review and expert opinions. After a pilot study, necessary revisions were made, and the interview form was finalized. Content analysis was employed to analyze the data obtained from these interviews. The findings revealed various issues such as insufficient training background, feelings of professional inadequacy, lack of institutional support, and insufficient collaboration between families and experts. Proposed solutions included increasing in-service training opportunities, enhancing inter-institutional communication and coordination, and improving effective collaboration processes with families. Keywords: Intellectually disabled; special education; teachers' experiences