SEARCHING FOR BRIDGES TO FIGHT ABLEISM IN EDUCATION: WHAT ISN'T MENTIONED SCREAMS

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present data from the preliminary research that examined  Elementary School children’s behavior towards their peers with disabilities, in order to understand whether they comprehend what means inclusion of people with disabilities is and how important inclusion is for the society in which they inhabit. Preliminary research data showed: (i) relationship between Elementary School children’s and their peers with disabilities (from the special class) based on attitudes of restriction and isolation; (ii) perception about the students from special class based only on disability; (iii) lack of identification between Elementary School children’s and their peers with disabilities (from the special class); and (iv) importance of the school's role in raising awareness about school and social inclusion. The results presented here are significant and sensitive, but are not conclusive. As the observation unfolded, became clear he importance of turning attention to those who already have a mature attitude and behavior, the educators.