An investigation into the characteristics of effective school-based consultation

Wiredu, Margaret (2013). An investigation into the characteristics of effective school-based consultation. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This research investigated the implementation of a system of consultation as the method of service delivery for a central Special Educational Needs (SEN) support service in a local authority.
Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) and SEN Advisory Teachers who participated in consultation were interviewed individually in order to understand their perceptions of the consultation process they engaged in. SEN Advisory Teachers were found to have received specific training relating to the philosophy and implementation of consultation whereas the SENCOs had been excluded from any formal training.
SENCOs and SEN Advisory Teachers working together via consultation in two mainstream primary schools were observed engaging in consultation. SENCOs were found to value the technical skills of the Advisory Teachers and there was evidence of SENCOs transferring the skills and knowledge learned through consultation to different situations. There was also evidence of an imbalance of power in the relationship between the two professional groups and of dominant behaviours.
The research identified a number of characteristics of an effective system of consultation, together with a number of characteristics of an ineffective system of consultation. Some recommendations have been made regarding the implications of the results with regard to schools and support services.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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