Voices of Children with Impairments in Tanzania: Understanding the Barriers Hindering Participation in Decision Making in School

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the barriers hindering participation in decision making in school for Children with Impairments (CWPI) in Ilala and Temeke districts of Dares Salaam City in Tanzania. The study was conducted in two public schools which are Jangwani Secondary School and the Salvation Army School. The study looked at how CWPI were involved in making decisions on administrative issues as well as learning, and the barriers limiting their participation. A sample of 12 students, 8 teachers, and 2 Government Officials was selected. Data were sourced by use of interviews and group activities, and descriptive analysis techniques were used to analyze the collected data. The findings revealed that CWPI were imposed by various barriers hindering their participation in decision making, including decisions being made at the ministerial level such as curriculum issues, choice of textbooks. CWPI and Children with no Impairments (CWNI) were thought to be capable of participating in making decisions, however they were also perceived as immature persons thus unable to be involved in decision making with regards to the schools' administration issues such as deciding on the schools' disciplinary measures as well as making decisions regarding learning, including curriculum issues, assessment and choice of text books. Additionally, it was revealed that there was lack of guidelines/policies to guide the participation of children in schools.