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Inclusive Education

By Leslie Soodak, Ph.D.

Pace University

And Elizabeth Erwin, Ed.D.

Montclair State University

Inclusive education happens when children with and without disabilities participate and learn together in the same classes. Research shows that when a child with disabilities attends classes alongside peers who do not have disabilities, good things happen.

For a long time, children with disabilities were educated in separate classes or in separate schools. People got used to the idea that special education meant separate education. But we now know that when children are educated together, positive academic and social outcomes occur for all the children involved.

We also know that simply placing children with and without disabilities together does not produce positive outcomes. Inclusive education occurs when there is ongoing advocacy, planning, support and commitment.

Real Life Story: See how inclusive education works in everyday situations.

NEXT: Benefits of Inclusive Education