The Amalgamation of Special Education? On Practices and Policies that may Render it Unrecognizable

ABSTRACT

The decades-long assault on principles of special education—some knowingly, such as the regular education initiative, and some unknowingly, such as certain presumptions and practices of full inclusion—have consequences that may negatively affect the future of the field. Protracted criticisms on the character, role, and legitimacy of traditional special education and its related policies and practices have, in some ways, weakened its identity. It is conceivable that special education, as a robust and independent educational component is being threatened. Factors leading to this conclusion are discussed as well as a call for recognition of policy implications and needed research to guide policy development.