A study of provision for specific learning difficulties (dyslexia) in primary education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Al-Shareef, Layla (2017). A study of provision for specific learning difficulties (dyslexia) in primary education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This is a case study of two mainstream primary schools in one city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in order to investigate the educational provision for students with SpLD. The aim of the study was to identify the provision for students with SpLD with the aim to contribute to policy development with regard to special educational needs (SEN). Nineteen participants were selected using purposive sampling, comprising regular and SEN teachers, parents, students with SpLD and one officer from the Ministry of Education (MoE). Data was collected through interviews, observation and document analysis. The emerging themes from the data were coded and analysed with the use of constructivist approach together with Frith (1995) as a theoretical framework. The data from this study suggested that although the Saudi Government has initiated programmes for the support of students with SpLD, these programmes were only used in a few selected schools and could only cater for limited number of students with SpLD. The study further suggested that students with SpLD were marginalised due to other factors such as negative attitudes towards including them in the mainstream classrooms.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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