Aptitude Test as Determinant of Academic Achievement of Special and Neurotypical Learners' Aptitudinal Display in Nigerian Inclusive Classrooms

Abstract

Sustainable Development Goal 4 emphasises equitable learning opportunities for all learners,
regardless of ability or condition. Ensuring equal classroom participation is for developing
learners’ skills, self-esteem, and competencies needed for future employability. This study
compared the learning aptitude of special learners-Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention
Deficit Disorder (ADD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)-with
neurotypical learners in classroom activities across five states, including the Federal Capital
Territory, Abuja. The comparison was guided by socio-emotional and metacognition theories
for neurotypical learners and integrated behaviour management and constructivist theories for
special learners. The study examined differences in academic achievement and gender between
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEN-D) learners and neurotypical learners using
academic aptitude support strategies. An experimental design was adopted, involving 66
special learners and 77 neurotypical learners selected through multi-stage sampling. Data were
collected using an academic aptitude test with a reliability coefficient of r = 0.781. Four
hypotheses were tested at the 0.05 significance level, and independent t-tests were used to
compare mean differences in academic achievement. Findings revealed significant difference
in neurotypical learners’ academic achievement across gender for both pretest and posttest
scores (P = 0.001 < 0.05), resulting in rejection of the null hypotheses. In contrast, special
learners’ mean scores indicated no significant gender-based differences (P = 0.228 pretest; P =
0.215 posttest > 0.05), leading to acceptance of the null hypotheses. The study concluded that
academic achievement improved for both groups and recommended integrating aptitude-based
activities for special learners to foster inclusive learning practices.