Educational Integration -- principles, practices and programs

Abstract

In response to parental pressure and questions of efficacy of current educational practice, professionals have examined methods of providing educational opportunities for students with exceptional educational needs. This paper provided an historical review of educational integration of student with handicaps into general education environments. Integration was defined and Wolfensberger's seven themes of normalization were described. Educational professionals' views of problems with the current segregated system were presented and possibilities for integration were highlighted. Integrative principles and practices were examined and eight integrative programs were described. The particular strengths of each were noted. Finally, a description of elements considered critical to quality integrative programs was presented.