Description
‘Makes a strong contribution to the field, illuminating many issues and significant concerns.’ – Mary Carlson, Special Education Teacher, Park Hill K-8 School, Denver, CO ‘A unique, timeless collection that raises interesting questions about disability classification internationally.’ – Wendy Dallman, Special Education Teacher, New London High School, WI Promote equal educational opportunity through improved classification practices! The identification of children for special educational services has long been a topic of debate. Are students classified accurately? Are adequate services available? Have systems designed to ensure equity instead resulted in discrimination? Disability Classification in Education offers a comprehensive analysis of current classification systems and categorical labels in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. Covering specific national policies from historical, sociological, and legal perspectives, this collection of articles from a group of esteemed educational researchers identifies the disparities between different classification systems and suggests changes based on recent requirements, challenges, and trends. Aligned with NCLB and the reauthorization of IDEA 2004, this edited volume examines: The evolution of special education classification policies The relevance of existing disability classification systems Dilemmas educators face in using current classification procedures Alternatives for serving learners with special needs Approaches to developing a standardized or universal classification policy Intended to stimulate discussion and spark change, this guide helps school or district administrators and university faculty improve the professional practice of those entrusted with the development and well-being of children with disabilities. Lani Florian is a Professor and Bell Chair of Education at the University of Edinburgh and Visiting Professor of Special Education at the University of Vienna. She is an Academician of the Academy of Social Sciences (UK). Her research interests include models of provision for meeting the needs of all learners, and inclusive pedagogy. She is co-author of Achievement and Inclusion in Schools, winner of the 2008 NASEN/Times Education Supplement academic book award. She has consulted on special needs education and inclusion for a number of international organisations including Open Society Foundations, UNICEF, and the OECD.
