In the context of SPED, what does the term "inclusion" refer to?

The term "inclusion" in the context of SPED refers to integrating students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. This approach emphasizes the importance of providing equal educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their individual needs. Inclusion promotes a teaching environment where students with disabilities learn alongside their typically developing peers, allowing for social interactions and collaborative learning experiences.

It is based on the belief that students with disabilities can benefit from being part of a diverse classroom setting, where they have access to a full curriculum and can participate in a wide range of activities. Effective inclusion requires appropriate support and accommodations to ensure that all students can thrive within the general education framework.

The other options, while relevant to different aspects of special education, do not align with the concept of inclusion. Providing separate facilities for learning does not promote integration; rather, it isolates students with disabilities from their peers. Offering alternative assessment metrics focuses on evaluation methods rather than teaching strategies. Restricting therapies to special education only would limit access to required services for all students, which contradicts the inclusive philosophy.