Recommendations for Improving Special Education Practice for Students with LD and EBD in Sub-Saharan African Countries
摘要
The population of children identified with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) continues to increase globally. Students identified with this condition often engage in challenging behaviors that negatively impact their learning and that of peers. Research shows that specific learning disabilities are often associated with emotional disorders. In order to address their learning needs, students identified with EBD or LD are often referred for special education services. In Africa, the status of learning disability among school going children is largely unknown. This is because of several challenges including lack of screening and assessment, lack of professional development in disability studies, and absence of clear legislative guidelines on how to screen and assess children for such disabilities. Most teachers in several African schools lack professional development in special and inclusive education practices. This chapter addresses challenges associated with identifying LD and EBD among students in African schools. It also describes suggestions for evidence-based instructional strategies to address the learning needs of students with LD/EBD.