The development of inclusive processes within educational settings. A research on the role of OEPAC


Abstract:

The creation of a network of supports for pupils with disabilities to be implemented as early as in early childhood settings, including with a view to the construction of the life project, is an issue widely known in the literature (Canevaro, 2019; Cesaro, 2015; Ianes et al., 2021a; 2021b; Bianquin & Bulgarelli, 2022; Guerini & Sannipoli, 2024). In Italy within the network there is (or there should be) the OEPAC (Operatore Educativo per l’Autonomia e la Comunicazione; i.e.: Educational Worker for Autonomy and Communication), a figure whose role seems to be poorly known and still little valued (Catarci & Smeriglio, 2018; Di Michele, 2023; Disegno di Legge 236/2023; Guglielmucci, 2017; Ruggieri et al., 2018). For these reasons, during the period January 2023-May 2024, we conducted a mixed-methods research involving OEPAC, teachers and parents to identify the contribution of OEPAC in the development of inclusive processes. This paper shows and discusses the first results that have emerged.