There are a variety of views on mainstreaming (inclusion).  Teachers, parents, and children all have different views.  The

majority of teachers who were interviewed believe inclusion is beneficial for all children.  Parents have worries that their

mainstreamed child may take too much of the teacher's time.  This would take attention away from the other children.  Parents

with regular education children have fears of their child not getting the complete help they may need.  Many studies have shown

mainstreaming to be beneficial for all students.  It has helped other students gain a greater understanding of those with

disabilities.  Special students remain with their peers, they are not segregated from  normal activities of the school.  Students

with disabilities in the regular classroom have a broader range of experiences with individuals who are different from

themselves.  They can gain respect and appreciate human differences, and recognize similarities.  Regular classroom teachers

have said, "techniques used for mainstreamed students are effective for all of their students."

    Parents have worries that the regular education classes have only one teacher.  The classrooms with special needs students

generally have an aid and in some cases have a special education teacher.  Classroom set-up and curriculum are adjusted to fit

the needs of all students.

    I believe inclusion should be accepted in most cases.  If the regular education teacher has help from aids or a special

education teacher,  I feel this is a great step for children with disabilities.
 

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