What distinguishes special education from general education?

The distinction of special education primarily lies in its tailored approach to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. This individualized focus is essential because students in special education may require different methods of instruction, adaptations to the curriculum, or specific resources to facilitate their learning and development. The goal of special education is to create an effective learning environment where students with disabilities can thrive alongside their peers, ensuring they have access to the same educational opportunities while also receiving the support necessary for their individual challenges.

In contrast to this, while general education may aim to provide a broad curriculum for all students, it does not typically account for the specific needs and accommodations required by students with disabilities. Hence, it cannot offer the same level of personalized instruction and support that special education guarantees.