Inclusion: Academic Vs. Social Success

There is quite a bit of research that focuses on improving teaching strategies for students with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, behavioral issues and more. However, there is very little coverage or mention on which specific environment is the most beneficial for the combined academic and social success of special education students (Story, 2018). The spectrum of learning disabilities is so vast, that there is no one perfect method or model for the academic and social success of the student. Proper accommodations and modifications are vital to the success of students with learning disabilities. This is a perfect example of why inclusion in general education is not the ultimate answer. Every single student—learning disabled or not—is completely unique from another, which is why they each thrive in their own unique set of circumstances. Academically, all learning-disabled students have different needs and there are different methods on how to meet those needs for each one. Special education requires an individualized approach and works to bridge the gap between them and their peers. Socially, when learning disabled students are placed among their peers without learning disabilities, it promotes a better sense of community, involvement, and social awareness throughout the general education environment. Special educators and general educators use their combined professional expertise every day to ensure the success of each and every one of their students. They work to provide and maintain a safe, responsive, and inclusive classroom environment, that can benefit all students academically, while significantly benefiting all students socially