Development of Quality Model for Special Education Centers

Abstract

Title: Development of Quality Model for Special Education Centers The present study was designed to develop model for improving the quality of special education centers located at Punjab province. The study was descriptive in nature, in which perception of stakeholders regarding quality of the services provided to special children were explored through quantitative and qualitative methods. Objectives of the study were to compare the perception of stakeholders ( students, parents, teachers and Headmasters/ headmistressess) regarding quality of services being provided by special education centers in relation to their demographic characteristics, to examine the services provided to special students at special education centers, to explore various factors those are hindering quality of special education centers and explore the interventions which can elevate the quality of education provided to special students at special education centers and to develop model to improve the quality of special education at the special education centers. Population of the study was comprised of special students, parents/ guardian of special students, teachers/ professionals and Head Masters/ mistresses of special education centers. Due to available resources to researcher only 30 special education centers were selected for data collection. Data was collected from 100 special students, 220 parents of special students, 150 teachers/ professionals and 30 Head Masters/ headmistresses with the help of separate research questionnaires which were developed by the researcher keeping in view the research objectives. For quantitative analysis collected data was analyzed with Mean, SD and ANOVA. Content analysis performed for qualitative data analysis. Results revealed that stakeholders were not satisfied with the physical facilities and incentive delivery. Administration of the special education centers was unable to provide desired assistive devices and friendly environment (according to the needs of special children) due to lack of human and capital resources. On the basis of qualitative and quantitative data analysis a model proposed; which was based on several inputs and process. Output of quality education may be improved if centers could be equipped appropriate staffing with adequate facilities (human and capital resources).