A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON AWARENESS OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AMONG PRE-SERVICE EFL TEACHERS IN TWO KAZAKHSTANI UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

This study aimed to explore and compare the awareness level of Inclusive education among pre-service EFL teachers at two Kazakhstani universities. University 1 is a private multi-profile university, while University 2 is a state university with a pedagogical profile. A quantitative method was utilised in the current study and an adapted questionnaire was distributed to 80 participants. The results showed that pre-service EFL teachers at both universities had similarly high awareness levels of the concept, aims, and importance of Inclusive education, however both universities had moderate level of awareness regarding educational policies and ongoing projects. Moreover, University 1 demonstrated a higher awareness level than University 2 on teaching methods and issues, visible and invisible disability types, and the role of gifted children in promoting inclusion. The findings of this study can be used to improve teacher training programs on Inclusive education at higher educational institutions of Kazakhstan.