Wioleta Karna

Purpose: This qualitative study explores the perspectives of teachers on integrating socio-political issues into classroom discussions, aiming to understand the challenges and strategies employed by educators in various educational contexts. The objective was to illuminate the factors influencing effective teaching practices concerning socio-political topics, thereby informing educational policies and teacher training programs. Methodology: This study utilized a qualitative research design, with data collected exclusively through semi-structured interviews involving 30 teachers from different educational levels and geographic locations. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure a diversity of experiences and perspectives. Data analysis was performed using NVivo software to facilitate thematic analysis, ensuring theoretical saturation was achieved to validate the consistency and comprehensiveness of the findings. Findings: The analysis revealed three main themes: Teacher Preparedness, Student Engagement, and Institutional Support. Under Teacher Preparedness, subthemes included Training and Professional Development, Personal Comfort with Topics, and Curriculum Integration, indicating the need for improved resources and training. Student Engagement was characterized by varying levels of participation and the impact of classroom dynamics on learning, highlighting the influence of teaching methods and environment. Institutional Support emerged as critical, with subthemes like Administrative Guidance and Resources emphasizing the need for stronger institutional backing and adequate resources to support teachers. Conclusion: The study underscores the complexities of discussing socio-political issues in educational settings and the pivotal role of teachers in facilitating these discussions. Effective socio-political education requires comprehensive teacher training, supportive institutional frameworks, and resources that together foster an environment conducive to open and critical discussions. Addressing these factors is crucial for preparing students to participate thoughtfully in democratic processes.

This study aims to identify the cognitive and emotional components of self-advocacy in exceptional learners and examine the external factors that influence their ability to advocate for themselves in educational settings. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 29 exceptional learners recruited through online platforms. Theoretical saturation was reached, ensuring comprehensive data collection. NVivo software was used to conduct thematic analysis, identifying key cognitive and emotional factors related to self-advocacy. Participants shared their experiences regarding metacognitive awareness, decision-making, emotional regulation, and external support systems, providing rich qualitative data for analysis. The results indicated that self-advocacy among exceptional learners is shaped by cognitive competencies, including metacognition, decision-making, and information-seeking behaviors, as well as emotional factors such as self-efficacy, resilience, and emotional regulation. Participants who demonstrated strong metacognitive strategies and confidence were more effective self-advocates, whereas those facing anxiety or low self-efficacy struggled to assert their needs. External factors, such as educator support, family involvement, and institutional policies, played a critical role in shaping advocacy experiences. Online networks and digital advocacy resources were identified as valuable tools for enhancing self-advocacy skills. However, institutional barriers, including bureaucratic challenges and lack of awareness among educators, posed significant obstacles for learners. The study highlights the complexity of self-advocacy in exceptional learners, emphasizing the interplay between cognitive awareness, emotional resilience, and external support structures. Enhancing self-advocacy skills requires targeted interventions, including advocacy training, institutional support, and digital resource accessibility.