Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to examine the characteristics of communication between teachers and parents of children learning in elementary school in a special education framework using the WhatsApp application, from the perspective of the teachers. The main research question was what are the characteristics of communication via WhatsApp application between teachers and parents of children attending elementary school in special education from the perspective of the teachers?

The research was carried out using the qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews of twelve teachers who teach in the elementary grades in special education. The findings of the research showed five central themes – how the application was used, the effectiveness of the communication, the challenges of the communication, the ways of dealing with the challenges and school policy. The main conclusions deal with the frequency of use of the platform, the purpose of this use and the aspect of setting boundaries of using this tool to prevent the raising of sensitive issues using this platform. In addition, the conclusions relate to the high efficiency of the WhatsApp as a tool of communication between parents and teachers in special education because of its convenience and time saving quality. And also for the increased involvement of parents and their participation in various processes.

Despite the efficiency, the various communication challenges point to ambivalence since the teachers are required to be available constantly and immediately causing the teacher's status and dignity to be eroded. A significant conclusion emerges that sometimes there is a faulty interpretation by the parent when conveying important messages in special education.

The contribution of this research to the field of educational work expresses itself in a number of outlooks and points; Awareness of the importance of constant communication with the parents and ways of accomplishing this, the existence of school policy regarding the use of WhatsApp and building an infrastructure for optimal communication with parents using WhatsApp as a tool for optimal, flourishing, respectful and effective communication.

Keywords:

Communication between teachers and parents, WhatsApp, Technology, Special education.