Abstract:

The purpose of the study was to examine the knowledge levels of primary school teachers about the relation of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Al Ain, UAE. This quantitative study compared teacher’s knowledge levels and symptoms/diagnosis of ADHD. Educators must be adequately prepared to teach adolescents and to meet the individual needs of all students. The work of the teacher becomes more demanding when some learners have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), as their troubles with attention span, managing their impulses, and activity level often obstruct classroom activities (DuPaul & Stoner, 2003). Total of 98 teachers completed the Knowledge of Attention Deficit Disorders Scale and a demographic questionnaire. The results indicated that the teachers lacked adequate knowledge of ADHD, repeated measures ANOVA results indicated that the teachers’ scores on the three subscales of the measure were significantly different (F = 7.65, p < .01), with the score being highest on the symptoms/diagnosis subscale. In conclusion, teachers need appropriate support and training on general information and symptoms/diagnosis of ADHD.

Keywords:

ADHD symptoms ADHD treatment classroom management inclusive education special needs teacher training.