Basic Concepts of Special and Inclusive Education
Introduction
With the current reforms in the Philippine education system, particularly through
the Department of Education Order (DO) No. 21, series of 2019, and the national
adoption of the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST) or DO 42, s.
2017, teachers are now expected to be key implementers of inclusive education.
This lesson will help you understand the concepts of inclusive education and
special education, their similarities, and differences.
Definitions and Differences:
- Special Education: Tailored instruction designed to meet the unique needs of
students with disabilities. It often involves specialized teaching methods,
materials, and settings.
- Inclusive Education: An educational approach where all students, regardless of
their abilities or disabilities, learn together in the same environment. It
emphasizes the removal of barriers to learning and participation.
1. Inclusive Education (IE)
Definition: inclusive Education is about ensuring that all learners, regardless of
their diverse needs, abilities, and characteristics, have the right to education. It
aims to eliminate all forms of discrimination in the learning environment
UNESCO's View: According to UNESCO, inclusive education involves strengthening
the capacity of the education system to reach out to all learners and overcoming
barriers that limit their presence, participation, and achievement
Philippine Context: DepEd Order 21, series of 2019, emphasizes that inclusive
education is a core principle of the K to 12 curriculum, which is leamer-centered,
developmentally appropriate, culture-sensitive, relevant, gender-responsive, and
contextualized
2. Special Education (SpEd)
Definition: Special Education refers to classes or instruction designed specifically
for students with disabilities, giftedness, and talents. It involves tallored
educational programs to meet the unique needs of these students
Special Education Needs (SEN): This term is used to describe children who require
additional support due to Impairments
Principles of Inclusive Education:
- Equity: Ensuring all students have access to the same educational
opportunities and resources.
- Participation: Encouraging active involvement of all students in classroom
activities.
- Support: Providing necessary accommodations and modifications to help all
students succeed.
Benefits of Inclusive Education:
- Social Integration: Promotes understanding, acceptance, and friendships
among students of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
- Academic Improvement: Research shows that inclusive settings can enhance
learning outcomes for all students, not just those with disabilities.
- Personal Development: Helps students with disabilities develop self-esteem,
independence, and social skills.
Challenges and Solutions:
- Teacher Training: Ensuring teachers are equipped with the skills and
knowledge to support diverse learners.
- Resource Allocation: Providing adequate resources, such as teaching
assistants, specialized equipment, and accessible materials.
- Attitudinal Barriers: Overcoming prejudices and misconceptions about the
capabilities of students with disabilities.
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs):
- Purpose: IEPs are designed to set personalized goals for students with
disabilities and outline the specific services and supports they need.
- Components: Include academic and functional goals, accommodations,
modifications, and methods for tracking progress.
Similarities and Differences
Similarities:
Both inclusive education and special education aim to provide appropriate
educational opportunities for all students.
Both approaches recognize the need for tailored support to meet individual
learning needs.
Differences:
Inclusive Education: Focuses on modifying the general curriculum to
accommodate all students within the mainstream classroom. It emphasizes the
adaptation of the learning environment to cater to diverse learning patterns
Special Education: Often involves separate classrooms or schools designed
specifically for students with disabilities. It prioritizes individualized learning plans
and specialized instruction
