Inclusive education is built on the philosophy that every child is valued equally and that children
with special needs have the right to the same experiences and opportunities as typically developing
children. Inclusion programs allow children with special needs to go to school with their friends
and neighbors and receive "specially designed instruction" so they can achieve optimal learning.
An inclusive learning environment respects that children learn differently; therefore, all children
in the class benefit by exposure to a variety of teaching techniques and meaningful participation.
In a review of research on inclusion for both elementary and secondary schools, students' academic
performance was found equal to or better in inclusive settings for general education students, even
those considered to be high achievers.
Salend, S.J., & Duhaney, L.G. (1999).
The impact of inclusion on students with and without disabilities
and their educators. Remedial & Special Education, 20(2), 114-127.