Lessons learned of inclusive education in Thailand : the teachers of inclusive schools

Teachers, particularly special education teachers, play a vital role in implementing inclusive education and promoting the holistic development of students with special educational needs. This study aimed to share knowledge and lessons learnt from inclusive education best practices among teachers in inclusive schools. A total of 54 teachers participated in workshops, including 36 from primary inclusive schools and 18 from secondary inclusive schools under their respective Educational Service Areas. The facilitators collected qualitative data and submitted them to the researcher. The data were organised, transcribed verbatim and analysed using ATLAS.ti Version 23. Three themes emerged. First, factors supporting inclusive education included personnel, budgets, leadership, organisational support and resource provision. Second, learning management and professional capacity development encompassed student assessment, Individualised Education Programme (IEP) planning, teaching strategies, instructional media, facilities, evaluation and supplementary instruction. Third, creating better futures for students with special educational needs required inclusive educational practices and collaboration among relevant stakeholders. These findings offer practical insights for strengthening inclusive education, enhancing teachers' professional capacity and fostering sustainable collaboration to improve educational opportunities and learning outcomes for students with special educational needs.