HOME SCHOOL EDUCATORS’ PERSPECTIVE OF THE IMPACT OF HOMESCHOOLING ON CHILDREN WITH INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY IN ABUJA

Abstract

Homeschooling in recent times has started gaining global recognition. However, its practice in Nigeria is very limited. Hence, its benefits remain rarely tapped especially for children with Intellectual Developmental Disability. This study investigated homeschool educators’ perspectives of the impact of homeschooling on children with Intellectual Developmental Disability (IDD) in Abuja Municipal. Through a qualitative research approach, eight (8) participants who are homeschool educators of children with Intellectual Developmental Disability were selected using purposive and snowball sampling techniques; and their perspectives studied. The instrument for data collection was a researcher constructed semi- structured interview. The validity and reliability of the instrument was established through face, content and intra-coder validity and reliability methods respectively. Three research questions were raised; six themes emerged from the data analysis with “optimal child centered approach” as the dominant theme and five other sub-themes. The study is hinged on the universal design for learning theory as it focuses on the elimination of all barriers to learning. Findings from the study showed that homeschooling is an effective educational alternative approach with very positive impact on the intellectual, practical and social skills of children with Intellectual Developmental Disability. Thus, it was recommended that advocacy should be made by stakeholders so that homeschooling gains recognition in Nigeria. Also, there should be a system of financial support for families homeschooling their children with Intellectual Developmental Disabilities by the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and philanthropists.