Analysis of diploma and certificate student teachers’ attitude towards educating pupils with intellectual disability in Tanzania: the case Study of Student Teachers in Korogwe Teachers College

The purpose of this study was to analyse the attitude of Diploma and Certificate student teachers towards educating pupils with intellectual disabilities (ID). The study analysed and compared the attitudes of Diploma and Certificate student teachers, differences in classroom interactions between them and assessed acceptance of pupils with ID in inclusive classrooms. A stratified simple random sampling was used where a total of 80 Second Year Diploma and Certificate student teachers were obtained. The study employed triangulation approach in data collection and analysis. The instruments of data collection were semi-structured questionnaire, in-depth interview, and observation as well as focus group discussions. The study revealed that there were significant differences in attitudes between Diploma and Certificate student teachers towards educating pupils with ID. Most of the Certificate student teachers had negative attitudes towards them while most of Diploma Student Teachers had positive attitudes. The study concludes that majority of student teachers showed negative attitudes towards educating pupils with ID. This indicates that these student teachers are likely to negatively treat these pupils when certified as teachers. Furthermore, the study recommends that Diploma and Certificate student teachers be more trained in special education, especially on ID through seminars and workshops.