Involvement and Progress in the General Curriculum: A Grounded Theory of the Process

Abstract

This qualitative multiple case study was part of a larger investigation to examine the processes that underlie involvement and progress in the general curriculum for students with extensive support needs. We found that general and special educators’ self-efficacy influenced students’ involvement and progress in the general curriculum. Special educators’ self-efficacy was influenced by their teacher preparation, flexibility, and content knowledge; and the district history and political context. General educators’ self-efficacy was influenced by feelings of autonomy, role clarity, and knowledge about inclusive education. Our findings revealed the central importance of teachers’ self-efficacy in supporting the involvement and progress in the general curriculum among students with extensive support needs. Results are discussed in relation to relevant theories of literacy access and inclusion for students with extensive support needs.