A Study of Social Interactions between Students with and without Disabilities in a Mainstream School

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe and document social interactions between students with and without disabilities in a mainstream school. The participants included two boys with mobility impairment and their typically developing classmates (ten of whom were interviewed) at a rural high school. Qualitative research methods were employed for data collection through participant observations and interviews. The study found that students with and without disabilities engaged mostly in positive social interactions, such as cooperation in academic work and sports. Students with disabilities mainstreamly reported pleasant friendship experiences; however it was also reported that they sometimes experienced limited opportunities to participate fully in their classrooms and school activities. Exclusion from school- related activities may lead them to feel like outsiders in their classrooms and play areas, as they are not always fully welcomed by typically developing classmates. Nonetheless, the overall findings support inclusive practices and advocate for strengthened inclusive educational provisions.