Over the past few weeks, much of the information on this page has been dedicated on special schools and inclusive school systems. We have discussed the uniqueness of each. We have talked about the characteristics of schools for the disabled, as well as the features of inclusive schools.
Importantly, we have made cases for why there should be widespread establishment of inclusive schools in the country. We have, in simple, understandable terms, provided reasons parents and guardians should be motivated, rather than hesitant, to enroll their children and wards to inclusive schools.
This article discusses the major differences between special schools and their inclusive counterparts in terms of the following areas:
Curriculum: Special schools are wholly special- incorporating a wholly uniform curriculum for the education of the special needs learners. Whereas, inclusive system employs a combination of multidisciplinary approach to curriculum and teaching methods.
Structure: special schools have an integrative structure where system accommodates the general individual needs of the learners with disabilities. For inclusive system, however, the structure of the class and the modus operandi of the teaching change to accommodate the needs of special students.
Population: special schools only technically accommodate students with special needs. In inclusive schools, there is diversity and heterogeneity where there are disabled and non-disabled learners in the classroom getting an education and interacting and sharing and advancing ideas.
Culture: the philosophical foundation of special needs schools is that of a conservative one with a closed, narrow-minded archaic system. for inclusive schools, we see a liberal, progressive approach with a broader mindset that is constantly adapting to realities.
Control: Special schools are in total control- gripped by the hustle and bustle of individualism. However, the control of inclusive schools can be more laid-back, testing and experimenting with different methodologies and practices to achieve optimum result.
Special schools are good; but inclusive schools are even better. Special schools isolate; inclusive schools do the opposite- include. It isn’t just the inclusivity and tolerance of inclusive schools, but the dynamics of this modern era that has necessitated the need for inclusive schools for leaners and individuals with disabilities.
As a special needs learner, which one would you prefer- special schools or inclusive schools. why?