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Factors influencing the successful transition of young people with Down syndrome
Author(s) -
Mullan Patricia,
Prendeville Paula,
Kinsella William
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
british journal of special education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.349
H-Index - 38
eISSN - 1467-8578
pISSN - 0952-3383
DOI - 10.1111/1467-8578.12237
Subject(s) - mainstream , thematic analysis , inclusion (mineral) , qualitative research , psychology , semi structured interview , perspective (graphical) , developmental psychology , transition (genetics) , mainstreaming , pedagogy , special education , sociology , social psychology , political science , social science , biochemistry , chemistry , artificial intelligence , computer science , law , gene
This study explored parental experiences and factors impacting on the successful transitioning of young people with Down syndrome from primary to mainstream secondary school settings in Ireland. This qualitative study used semi‐structured interviews to examine the perspectives of parents ( N = 5) and secondary school teachers ( N = 3) regarding this transition process. Interviews were analysed via thematic analysis using a social constructionist perspective. Results revealed that open communication between parents and schools was a significant factor impacting positively on the experience. However, results also indicated that a balancing act was required to manage factors such as parental fears and expectations, educational resources and the challenges in supporting the child to navigate the social world of mainstream schools. Findings identify challenges to the successful inclusion of young people with Down syndrome at secondary‐school level. Recommendations are made for future research.