Implementation of the Consultative Approach in the Classroom in Support of Related Services

Abstract

The consultative approach is described as a means for special services providers to facilitate incorporation of related service objectives and interventions for children with disabilities into their daily classroom routines. The approach involves collaboration between the special services consultant and classroom teacher in specifying the child's related service needs and then in designing, implementing, and evaluating classroom based related services interventions targeted to educational goals rather than medical/therapeutic criteria. Benefits to this kind of approach are discussed within the context of full inclusion of children with disabilities. Relatedly, barriers to implementation that are likely to be present when using the consultative approach are considered.