Understanding and engaging critically with the field of special educational needs and disability (SEND) is a difficult task. However, the new edition of this bestselling book continues to help students contextualize SEND in relation to historical, ideological and political developments as well as support them in developing a critical understanding of the complexities associated with inclusion. Completely up to date with recent legislation such as the SEND Code of Practice (2014) there are case studies, reflections and activities which will help students question practice they have seen and experienced. Covering the 0-25 age range this book is suitable for all those working with children and young people across education, health and social work.

'This is probably one of the most accessible books I have read lately in relation to SEN and Inclusion, and I intend to make it an essential core text for my inclusion module. It would be very accessible to students who are relatively new to the theoretical aspects behind the idea or concept of inclusion' - EsCalate Complex and diverse, special educational needs and inclusion can be a difficult area of study to approach for undergraduate students. Understanding the current context of SEN and inclusion means getting to grips with an often perplexing mix of social, political, ideological, educational and personal perspectives. This book explores and critically examines the field, providing a detailed introduction to the topic for students - helping them to develop understanding, without assuming any prior knowledge. Part One defines the concepts of SEN and disability and how the concepts have been defined through ideological models that have developed over time. It examines provision for SEN across the UK, and looks at how attitudes of teachers, parents and children have affected inclusion. Part Two explores the historical development of SEN internationally, including a comparative look at legislation and practice in England and a number of other countries. The third part details how SEN practice in England works, including the Every Child Matters agenda and the roles and responsibilities of education, health and social care professionals. Each chapter includes short case studies, points for reflection, student activities and suggestions for further reading.

Considerable challenges can face all those involved in teaching children with special educational needs. Complex policy and legislation, bureaucracy, inspection and limited resources can all appear difficult obstacles to those seeking to provide effective tuition. In this highly practical book, Michael Farrell unpicks and clarifies the role of educational standards in today's schools. Drawing extensively on detailed, real-life case studies, he closely explores such issues as: the definition of standards, identifying and providing for special educational needs, assessment and benchmarking, curriculum provision and target-setting, the role of the Code of Practice. Special educational needs coordinators, senior managers in schools and students completing initial training courses will find this an invaluable resource, which effortlessly simplifies an often complicated process.

"This book presents a stimulating and up-to-date overview of the context of education in SEN and suggests how educators can address special needs most effectively by keeping in mind an image of the development of the whole child. The editors have assembled an impressive range of thought-provoking contributions to the ongoing debate on the actual, the possible and the ideal responses that our education system makes or could make to the needs of its most vulnerable students." Tony Cline, Educational Psychology Group, University College London, UK. "This book provides readers with a fresh, often incisive approach to many perennial issues in education. These include but are not limited to socio-political agendas in inclusion, labelling, learners' self esteem and the delicate balance between different specialists within school systems that must be achieved in the best interest of the child with or without special educational needs and disabilities. Although written for a UK readership, the editors have ensured that the content of most chapters transcends national and systems boundaries with a healthy balance between psychological / educational theory and its real world application in contexts that may not be instantly responsive to the child's changing needs." Dr Victor Martinelli, University of Malta, Malta. "This book provides a welcome overview and commentary on current complex issues and problems affecting all those with an interest in children and young people with special educational needs. Ranging, as it does, from matters surrounding individuals such as labelling, therapeutic work and self-esteem to wider political, historical and socio- cultural influences, it provides the reader with a challenging, informed and critical set of perspectives. Its strength is the manner in which it tackles complex issues, providing thought-provoking views for those well versed in the world of special educational needs but also ensuring clear, comprehensive background information for novice readers of this topic. This book is an excellent compilation of relevant contemporary pieces thoughtfully woven together by highly skilled, well-placed editors." Jane Leadbetter, University of Birmingham, UK. This thought-provoking and accessible book provides an overview of key issues in the education of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Written by highly experienced practitioners and educationalists, the book explores a range of approaches for working with this diverse group of learners and invites you to consider your possible responses. The book begins with an historical overview of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and a critical guide to current policy. The contributors then expertly explore and summarise many of the fascinating topics which arise in practice and scholarly research in this area, including: Ethical and practical implications of labelling children and young people with forms of special educational needs or disability The role of special schools, particularly in light of enduring debates about inclusion/exclusion What increased student participation, student voice and other facets of a democratic classroom mean for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities The contributions psychology can make to developing and enriching educational practice Understanding 'behaviour' in relation to children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Case studies are used to illustrate these discussions and the book includes suggested protocols for good practice throughout. Throughout the book the reader is asked to reflect on the issues presented and come to their own decisions about what represents good practice in their setting.The journey concludes with a look at a possible 'ideal' school or educational setting for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Contemporary Issues in Special Educational Needs is an invaluable guide for trainee and qualified teachers, learning support staff, SENCO's, local authority officers, educational consultants and educational psychologists.

Teaching Assistants are increasingly relied upon to provide for children who experience difficulties in learning. Key Issues for Teaching Assistants is an essential companion for any Teaching Assistant who wants to understand more about inclusion and diversity in today's classrooms. While focussing particularly on the diverse roles of teaching assistants in supporting inclusive education, this book will be invaluable for all those involved in the development of inclusive learning and teaching. This highly accessible resource explores the values and the possible contradictions in policies and beliefs, enabling Teaching Assistants to develop a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles of inclusive education. Contributions from leading experts in the field consider common classroom issues such as: inclusion and special needs dealing with hard-to-reach parents tackling bullying and supporting those bullied boys, girls and the different ways they achieve being the class 'TA' not 'PA'. Each chapter contains an overview of topical debates, current research and initiatives, emphasising inclusive approaches and the importance of understanding the perspectives of children, regardless of their difference. Useful questions for reflection and a helpful list of suggested further reading material are also provided. Teaching Assistants, whether in practice, or as part of their study, will find this book an indispensable resource.

This essential textbook equips you with a strong understanding of theories, policies and practices and how they impact on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, guiding you through your SEND course or modules. It provides you with the foundations and tools necessary to think critically about the issues and developments concerning SEND, inclusion, and professional practice. The book includes: - Material surrounding mental health in childhood and adolescence - Chapters on global perspectives of SEND, and assistive technologies - Practical case studies, reflection questions and activities - Spotlights on key theories and research - Up-to-date information on policies impacting SEND

This book fills a gap in the dissemination of practitioner research on special and inclusive education in Ireland. The successful implementation of an inclusive education policy is a process which depends largely on the attitudes, knowledge and competencies of teachers. In this volume, teacher-researchers report on work undertaken within the Special Education Department of St Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Dublin. The studies are grouped around three key issues: responding to diversity, access to the curriculum and collaboration for inclusion. They offer valuable insights into the challenges and barriers to inclusive education and point to ways that schools can address these challenges from the perspective of small-scale research. The authors draw on a range of research methodologies, from single case experimental design to case studies, in order to illuminate the issues at the level of the individual student, teacher, class and school. The book is relevant to all who have an interest in practitioner research, the implementation of inclusive education and how policy translates in individual contexts.