Kindergarten teachers' awareness of early indicators of autism spectrum disorder in Duhok Governorate

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge among kindergarten teachers in Duhok Governorate regarding the early indicators of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The descriptive research approach was employed using the Autism Spectrum Disorder Indicators Scale developed by Mukhtar (2020), which consists of 22 items. The scale was administered to a randomly selected sample of 100 kindergarten teachers.

The findings indicated that the overall level of teachers’ knowledge about early indicators of autism spectrum disorder was low. Additionally, the results revealed no statistically significant differences in knowledge levels between teachers holding diploma degrees and those holding bachelor’s degrees. Furthermore, no significant differences were found based on years of teaching experience, as teachers with less than 10 years of experience did not differ from those with more than 10 years of experience.

The importance of the current study stems from the important role played by kindergarten teachers, as they are the closest to these children after the parents in most situations and at most times. Their ability to recognize the signs of autism spectrum disorder and respond to them appropriately is of utmost importance in providing diagnosis and early detection, and thus carrying out appropriate early interventions for their children, improving their behaviors and bringing them to the best results. This study also contributes to developing knowledge of the disorder for non-specialists, and provides a scientific addition to the literature of special education, specifically autism spectrum disorder, and enriches the field with information that clarifies the level of knowledge of kindergarten teachers about the initial indicators of autism spectrum disorder.