Cultivating special education teacher well-being : nurturing connection in professional learning communities

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Special education teachers, especially those working with learners with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), often face significant stress and burnout, affecting their well-being. This study explores teacher well-being in special education, motivated by personal experiences as a novice teacher in a special educational needs school. OBJECTIVES : The study aimed to provide special education teachers with an opportunity to collaboratively examine and address well-being challenges and opportunities within a professional learning community, focusing on belonging, competence, and autonomy in Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) settings. Utilising a phenomenological research design, the study involved eight teachers working with learners with ASD. METHOD : Data collection methods included observations, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions to comprehensively explore their lived experiences. The findings highlighted the profound impact of challenging experiences on teacher well-being and the lack of sufficient support structures. Participants emphasised the critical role of social support in enhancing teacher well-being. RESULTS : Participants defined well-being as emotional, physical, and holistic, including social and family aspects. While working with learners with ASD was meaningful, it also caused significant stress due to their complex needs. Daily challenges shaped teachers’ professional identity and competence. Connections with colleagues were valued, but a lack of institutional support and a restrictive school culture hindered well-being. When given autonomy, participants creatively co-developed well-being interventions, though support from management was essential for implementation. CONCLUSION : This research highlights the essential role of fostering a sense of belonging and connection within professional learning communities for special education teachers. It calls for increased accountability in developing well-being support structures and comprehensive training programmes tailored to the needs of novice educators in special education. By nurturing connections, fostering competence, and ensuring autonomy, the well-being of special education teachers, particularly those working with learners on the autism spectrum, can be significantly improved. Contribution: This study contributes to enhancing well-being support structures and training programmes for special education professionals.