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Globalization of Special Education for Economic Productivity and Community Participation in Kenya: Suggestions for Developing Countries

DOI: 10.18535/sshj.v7i12.889· Pages: 3314-3357· Vol. 7, No. 12, (2023)· Published: December 24, 2023
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Abstract

Globalization, a process with great potential for facilitating development in diverse aspects of life including education, entails access to ideas, knowledge, and information from worldwide interactions, collaboration, and shared resources. Like the typically developing child, a student with a disability in any country is entitled to and equally deserving of opportunities for learning skills and gaining abilities and competencies towards realizing their potential for a life that is both fulfilling and productive to their community. To this end, educational programs and activities informed by best practices targeting empowerment for the realization of equal opportunity, full participation, economic self-sufficiency, and independent living for such a student, internationally, are ideal. Although special education has come a long way in Kenya, there is evidence that current practice is fragmented with programs utilizing diverse practices. This article advocates globalization of special education in developing countries, that is, the increased use of best practices, ideas, knowledge, and information from other nations to create educational programs that facilitate the production of special education graduates better equipped for productive participation in communities. Using a review of existing literature, the author highlights research-based components of an appropriate education that increases chances for productivity by individuals with disabilities in developing countries and explores potential work and income generating options and opportunities for this population. A concluding statement of commendable government effort towards increasing inclusion of people with disabilities in gainful employment in Kenya is included.

Keywords

Globalization in Kenyaspecial education Kenyastudents with disabilitiestransition curriculumtransition planning Kenyalife skillsindividualized educationinclusion.

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Author details
Mary Kiarie
Southern Connecticut Ste University
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