DOI: 10.5176/ 2251-1865_CBP13.28
Authors: Mrs.Mahalakshmi Rajagopal
Abstract:
This paper is a theoretical study conducted as part of the author’s thesis on Slow Learners. This topic has been connived as a result of the author’s experience as a counselor in different schools in different parts of India. This paper elaborates on how a particular category of children, in spite of requiring help are not provided any , as the various policies and legal provisions for the children with special needs do not include them as one. The paper also briefly describes the findings from the sample collected in a theoretical form and has even included the qualitative information of respondents. This analysis gives a bird’s eye view of what needs to be done and how the children are at the receiving end presently due to lack of support and lack of recognition.
The paper elaborates on the urgent need for help for these children and emphasizes the need for support in a different angle during adulthood. The paper also highlights on the sorry state of ignorance amongst the teaching community with regard to inclusion and integration.
Children with special needs in general do not get a fair deal in the educational institutions. In spite of the People With Disability(Equal Opportunities ,Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act 1995, children with special needs are treated insensitively. The paper gives a brief description of the conditions of children with special needs in Indian schools as witnessed / experienced by her. It also explains what is lacking and what needs to be done. The suggestions provided in the conclusion have been compiled from the author’s observation, the responses of mental health professionals, teachers and parents of slow learners.
The paper is an honest attempt to highlight the plight of a particular category of children with special needs who are silently suffering as there is no focus on their needs. Through this paper, the author hopes to alleviate the condition of these children and enable them to live with dignity as is their right. She calls for a holistic change in the society’s perspective with regard to this category of children .Their needs are genuine and they require attention of the policy makers and law makers of India. With a little help, these children are sure to be successful in their pace. It is the responsibility of mental health professionals to highlight their needs and ensure that they get what they deserve with regard to education as well as profession/ vocation.
Keywords: Slow learner, disability, inclusive education, integrated education, intervention
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