In the following master's thesis we explored the professionals’ attitude and dilemmas with student transfers to the adapted educational program with a lower educational standard. More specifically, we researched how well the educators are acquainted with the specifics of the program, how the experience of teaching in the lower educational standard program influences their view and possible dilemmas regarding the transfers, how competent the educators feel in terms of informing and advising the parents, and whether the educators believe that the students’ well-being and self-image improve after the transfer to the lower standard program. The literature addressing how the practicing teachers cope with student transfers from the regular to the lower educational standard programs is limited. Being enrolled in inappropriate educational programs negatively affects individuals, making the correct placement essential at the right time. In the process of placing students in the appropriate educational program, the professional staff of regular or mainstream primary school programs play the key role.
For the purpose of this thesis, we have collected information through a questionnaire, completed by 91 professional educators from the central Slovenia region. We have found that professionals mostly support the transitions from regular to a lower educational standard program. They believe that the lower educational standard program is beneficial for students and they perceive it as an opportunity for students to make progress and ultimately be more successful. Opinions regarding the positive effects of transfer on students’ self-image vary, but overall positive views prevail. The questioned respondents reported positive outcomes of transfers in students, such as reduced levels of stress and pressure, acknowledging that the learning pace in the lower educational standard program is better suited to the students’ specific needs. Most of the respondents are familiar with the characteristics of the lower educational standard program, however they are less familiar with the curriculum itself and certain specific details of the program (for example methods of assessment, the available options for transitioning between different educational programs and the students’ future career opportunities after completing this educational level). The professionals who have already participated in student transfers from regular standard to lower standard programs have fewer professional dilemmas regarding the transfers and feel more competent in advising both students and their parents. Based on the findings of this research, we have prepared a short informational leaflet in order to help professional educators better understand the program and later on use it as a tool in informing the parents.
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