BRIDGING THE GAP: ELT STAKEHOLDERS’ PERSPECTIVES ON DYSLEXIA-FRIENDLY INCLUSIVE PRACTICES IN INDONESIA

While research into inclusivity and dyslexia, a neurodevelopmental condition affecting language learning, has gained greater attention, multilevel stakeholders’ perspectives across both public schools and teacher education programs remain underexplored. Addressing this gap, this study adapts the broader UNESCO Policy Review Framework as a lens for investigating dyslexia-friendly inclusive practices among ELT stakeholders, including in-service teachers, school administrators, teacher educators, and university administrators in the Riau Islands, Indonesia. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, this study gathered data through questionnaires, classroom observations, and semi-structured interviews. Subsequently, data were analyzed via descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results revealed limited awareness of dyslexia and inclusive education, alongside misconceptions and reliance on special schools. Although inclusive practices were evident (mainly differentiated instruction), specific support for students with dyslexia remained unaddressed. Despite inclusion being viewed positively and mandated within the education system, its implementation remained weak. The study offers implications for systemic reform, suggesting that ELT stakeholders enhance their inclusive practices through training and developing inclusive institutional management. Additionally, teacher education institutions should pursue curricular adjustments to incorporate dyslexia-friendly inclusive practices.