UK researcher, Elaine Ashbee, recently defended her PhD thesis, submitted to the University of Birmingham, entitled Educational Inclusion for Children with Autism in Palestine. For the development of her thesis, Ashbee worked in collaboration with the Qattan Centre for Educational Research and Development (QCERD), and in partnership with the Ramallah Friends School and The Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre.
In her research, Ashbee explores the inclusion of children with autism in the educational system and the possibility of actual implementation of inclusive strategies in Palestine. According to her findings, Ashbee notes that there is growing interest in autism in Palestine. She also observes that the education sector is a priority for Palestinians and that it is in constant growth, despite the difficult political and social contexts.
The thesis furthermore demonstrates that although there exists support for children with autism, as well as an awareness of the importance of their inclusion, they remain largely isolated and excluded from the educational system. The study also identifies features of successfully developing good educational practice for pupils with autism within two settings and considers the viability of replicating these more widely within Palestine.
The study’s concluding recommendations call for development of knowledge and practice in Palestine, and highlight a need for building capacity and resources to achieve this goal. It also proposes that there is a need for collaboration between governmental and non-governmental institutions, as well as individuals, which may draw on international experience in the field.
As to QCERD’s contribution to her work, Ashbee says: “I am enormously grateful to the Qattan Foundation and QCERD, which provided me with great financial support that helped me travel across Palestine for the purposes of my research. I also had the chance to draw on the Centre’s experience in the fields of research and education thanks to its professionals, who bridged the gap between me and educators and stakeholders in Palestine, and provided constant guidance and encouragement.”
The thesis is 366 pages and comprises nine chapters. It is dedicated to children with autism in Palestine, their families and all who support them.