This paper discusses the work of itinerant teachers from the city of Rio de Janeiro Board of Education, compares their professional experiences involving students with special needs included in regular schools in 1998 and 2005, and points out effective procedures that promote the inclusion of students with physical disabilities in regular school settings. A survey questionnaire made up of open and closed questions was employed. Data revealed that itinerant teachers' profile and work activities remained essentially the same in 1998 and in 2005. Results also highlighted the participants' role in the mediation, awareness and mobilization processes that sustain inclusion. Considering that itinerant teachers demonstrate extreme difficulties in mediating the pedagogical development of students with special needs, the authors suggest the inclusion of a teacher aide through a partnership program between the University and the city Board of Education. This collaborative work would support the inclusion of the students and improve the professional development of undergraduate students in Pedagogy, enhancing their preparation to work with diverse populations.
educational inclusion; physical disability; itinerant teacher; special education
