The Politics of Inclusion: A Dissenting Perspective.

American society has consistently pursued a political vision of humanitarian development--a vision of a free, open, and liberating pluralistic society. One of the crucial problems confronting society is how to provide an education for all children. The idea of including children and youth with significant disabilities in regular classrooms is a completely illogical way to improve the quality of learning. Inclusion would destroy the domain of special education, which has been developing analytical techniques and methodological skills designed to handle various disabilities over the last 45 years. Many parents probably do not want to compel their children to associate with students who have so much more capacity to learn. Inclusion of children with disabilities creates a contradictory environment for teachers who are expected to get their students to achieve at high levels. The quality of learning will decrease as public schools become a dumping ground for students with disabilities. Expensive reductions in class size will be necessary as children with disabilities are integrated. Recommendations are offered, focusing on convening state educational summits, expressing concerns to political leaders, generating professional development programs, and educating parents. Special educators are urged to ensure that only those students who need their specialized treatment are considered disabled and others are returned to the regular classrooms. (Contains 20 references.) (JDD)