ISSUES INFLUENCING LEARNING OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS IN TANZANIA VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRES

The study investigated issues which influence learning of Students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in inclusive Dar es Salaam Vocational Training Centers (VTCs). Qualitative and quantitative research approaches as well as survey research design were employed. Interviews, observations and documentary review were data collection methods used to collect data both primary and secondary data. Analysis of data was done based on research objectives; Findings indicated scarcity of instructional and learning of facilities/equipment in VTC. Despite, inadequacy of training facilities in some students with SEN were reported to use facilities/equipment designed for learners without SEN and this negatively affected learning. The learning environment for learners with SEN was unfriendly coupled with an unsuitable teaching methodology despite of employment of mixed instructional methods. The results conclude that, inclusive education is implemented in VTCs, and that students with SEN are capable of learning vocational skills on condition that they are provided with special training/learning facilities/equipment and conducive environments. Recommendations include: VTCs management to ensure availability of instruction and learning facilities in VTCs and instructors to use of variety of instructional methods.