Teachers' experiences of a differentiated curriculum for children with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

This study explored teachers' experiences in implementing a differentiated curriculum for children with severe intellectual disorders, including learners with autism spectrum disorder. The South African Differentiated Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (DCAPS) (2018) is a pilot study implemented by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to adapt the existing Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) to accommodate learners with high support needs to acquire skills and independence. This research followed a qualitative approach with a phenomenological multiple case study design. Eight teachers from four different schools in the Gauteng province participated. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, document analysis, observations and field notes. In the interviews, teachers shared their thoughts, feelings and experiences about using the DCAPS (2018). The findings revealed the following major themes: (1) The teachers did not entirely understand the rationale behind the DCAPS (2018) curriculum for children with autism (2) teachers found the implementation of the differentiated curriculum difficult (3) teachers lacked sufficient training on the DCAPS (2018) curriculum. It was recommended that the Department of Basic Education (DBE) uses a professional developmental model that includes continuous monitoring and support. The study provides a stepping-stone for further research on the DCAPS (2018) curriculum for children with autism in South Africa.

Keywords

• Autism spectrum disorder, differentiated curriculum, disability, support for learners