Integration in Sopron Primary Schools on the Basis of the Attitude of Heads and Teachers

Abstract

Integration and inclusion are not only pedagogical issues, but also socio-political aims. Inclusion is the outcome of the social need of equal opportunity. The goal of the nondiscriminative education is to provide success for everybody – according to abilities. Every child – including children with special educational needs – should have the chance to study in schools of public education, where they have equal opportunity; where they can get education which fits to their abilities and speed of development; and where they can obtain the knowledge necessary to manage their life successfully. The development of the inclusive school is a reform process that presupposes special skills from the teachers, a wide variety of organisational forms, and a special objective. I asked school directors and teachers in 7 primary schools in Sopron about the realisation of the integration in their schools. The conclusion: the objective conditions are not sufficient. Neither in quality nor in quantity. Nevertheless the doors of the schools are open to children with special educational needs, and the attitudes of the teachers and studenst are positive towards them.