Maguire-Giles, Nicola Annick
(2023)
Exploring the Experiences of Students with Additional
Educational Needs in Further Education:
An Investigation into the Transition from Mainstream
Education to Further Education.
Masters thesis, National University of Ireland Maynooth.
Abstract
This study delves into the unique journeys of students with Additional Educational Needs
(AEN) as they transition from mainstream secondary school to Further Education and
Training (FET) colleges. With the introduction of the EPSEN Act in 2004, the Irish
Education System has made significant strides towards inclusivity, particularly within
primary and secondary schools. (Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs
(EPSEN) Act, 2004) However, what happens when these students embark on their adult
journey in the further education sector, without the constant supervision of their parents and
the dedicated support provided by SEN departments and an SNA during their earlier
educational years? The research focuses on five students enrolled in various QQI level five
Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses at a FET college in Dublin. These courses range from
Pre-University Arts to Art Portfolio Preparation to Pre-Nursing Studies. Each student
involved in this study has disclosed at least one disability or AEN, which includes autism
spectrum disorder (ASD), Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Chronic Regional Pain
Syndrome, and Anxiety. Their valuable insights and personal perspectives shed light on their
educational experiences within the context of Further Education. The research is qualitative
and uses semi structured informal interviews. This study aims to analyse the complexities and
power dynamics of education through a Foucauldian lens by exploring the double-edged
sword of care, policy implications, and the need for comprehensive training for educators.
| Item Type: |
Thesis
(Masters)
|
| Keywords: |
Exploring; Experiences; Students; Additional
Educational Needs; Further Education;
Investigation; Transition; Mainstream
Education; Further Education; |
| Academic Unit: |
Faculty of Social Sciences > Adult and Community Education |
| Item ID: |
17681 |
| Depositing User: |
IR eTheses
|
| Date Deposited: |
12 Oct 2023 13:46 |
| URI: |
|
| Use Licence: |
This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available
here |
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