The Effect of the “Counseling and Guidance Services in Special Education” Course on School Counselor Candidates’ Perceptions of Self-Efficacy in Special Education

This study examined the effect of the “Psychological Counseling and Guidance Services (PCGSs) in Special Education” course on the school counselor candidates’ self-efficacy perceptions in special education. Pre-test, post-test control group (2x2) pattern was used in the study, which was quasi- experimental. 24 candidates who selected “PCGSs in Special Education” course were in the experimental group. 21 candidates who chose another elective course were in the control group. “Personal Information Form” and “School Counselors’ Self-Efficacy Scale Regarding Special Education (SCSSSE)” were used to identify the effect of the self-efficacy perceptions of the candidates in special education. ANOVA for repeated measurements was used in the analysis of the data. The level of self-efficacy perceptions regarding special education of the candidates in the experimental group increased significantly compared to the control group. The research findings are discussed in terms of the courses required for undergraduate education of the candidates.