Theories of Inclusive Education

`As a doctoral student, currently writing a dissertation which focuses on
inclusive education, I found this an excellent supportive resource. It brings
together the major theorists of the last 20 years and very importantly
highlights the perceived change in Mary Warnock's stance towards statementing
since the late 1970s. This element of change in the individual, society and
policy is an issue which runs through the book and from an emancipatory and
postmodernist stance is a vital inclusion. The inclusion of personal
reflections greatly adds to the text, instilling a confidence in the student
that there is value in being a person with a point of view. For me the
publication of the book comes after my own critical analysis of the
literature. From a purely selfish aspect, I wish it had been published earlier
in my studies. An excellent resource that I would thoroughly recommend -
Amazon Review

This book traces the major stages of thinking in the development of inclusive
education. It provides overviews of the main theoretical influences: the
medico-psychological model; sociological positions; curriculum studies; school
effectiveness and the impact upon policy and practice of the Disability
Movement. Positioned and discussed in their historical contexts the book
provides a synopsis and critique of the last 50 years of the 20th century,
including the introduction of the term 'special educational needs', the
practice of integration and the present processes of inclusive education.

The unique features of this book include personal reflections by a number of
people who are considered to have had a major influence in the development of
Inclusive Education. Summaries of their work, their writing and their thinking
are provided - drawn from interviews with them and their own publications.

The book identifies and embraces some major issues. It does so bearing in mind
the interests and perspectives of students working within Inclusive education
studies and presents some complex issues in an accessible format with a direct
style. Linking directly to the student experience, the book concludes with
examples of how students have used theories on inclusive education to inform
their reflections on practice. The book throughout is deliberately learner-
friendly, using sample- group activities and suggested readings, and is
designed to be an effective course reader.