Educational inclusion in Paraguay

An analysis based on the experience of teachers supporting inclusion in an organisation in Asunción

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54549/cs.2024.4.4711

Keywords:

inclusion support teachers, inclusive education, Paraguay

Abstract

The Inclusive Education Law 5136/13, a decade after its implementation, still faces challenges in ensuring that schools truly become spaces that meet the needs of people with disabilities. This study aims to analyze the experiences of  teachers assistants for children and adolescents with a disability , understanding the reasons for their association and their role in schools. This  study is qualitative, adopting a hermeneutic approach and exploratory scope, including a sample of two teacher assistants. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with representatives from the organization APUAI (Association of Professionals and University Students Supporting Inclusion). Results indicate that APUAI is committed to transforming the education system for a more inclusive society, and the interviewed teachers seek to influence the state for recognition and salary regulation. Lack of regulation makes their role a private matter, affecting the economic capacity of families to access education for students with disabilities. Despite lacking pedagogical qualifications, these teachers play a pedagogical role, mainly being professionals in therapeutic fields and students from various disciplines. The study concludes the importance of addressing gaps in the law to build a more equitable and accessible educational and social environment. Professional training for inclusion support teachers is crucial, and further research with a broader sample, including public and private institutions, is needed to explore this role in Paraguay

Author Biographies

  • Henrique Ferreira Bueno, Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales, Asunción, Paraguay

    Sociologist with a master's degree in Political Science and Sociology. He researches the history of the press and public policy.

  • Monserrat Leguizamón Goiri, Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales, Asunción, Paraguay

    Teacher and researcher, specialising in educational inclusion. Founder and board member of the Association of Professionals and University Graduates Supporting Inclusion (APUAI), she works to promote rights, educational integration and better working conditions for teachers supporting inclusion in Paraguay.

  • Evelyn Mendoza, Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales, Asunción, Paraguay

    Social Sciences Researcher

  • Karina Rodriguez, Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales, Asunción, Paraguay

    Social Sciences Researcher

  • Ronaldo Rodas Jara, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Santa Clara de Asís, Caaguazú, Paraguay

    Doctorate in Education and Psychology from the University of Warwick (United Kingdom) and Bachelor's degree in Special and Inclusive Education from National Taiwan Normal University. He was a young ambassador for Paraguay in the United States, a distinguished scholar in Taiwan, and a promoter of inclusive educational projects.

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Published

2024-12-20

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Original Articles

How to Cite

Educational inclusion in Paraguay: An analysis based on the experience of teachers supporting inclusion in an organisation in Asunción. (2024). Cuadernos De Sociología, 4, 143-157. https://doi.org/10.54549/cs.2024.4.4711