The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act states that students must be educated in the "least restrictive environment." For some special education students, this means being included with their peers in a regular classroom setting or an inclusion class. Many special students are successful in these classes with a few additional supports. They may need shorter assignments, modified exams and preferential seating near the front of the room, which can easily be done in a regular classroom.
Oftentimes, people may not notice the difference between a regular class and an inclusion class that contains special education students. The one noticeable difference is that inclusion classes usually have two teachers: a general education teacher and a special education teacher. They may teach the class as one large group and at other times may use small-group instruction instead. Both teachers help all students, regardless of ability level.
When special education students are educated alongside their nondisabled peers, all students benefit. Inclusion classes show students that everyone is welcome and can learn from each other. Students learn to appreciate diversity, benefit from the extra teacher in the room, and some special education students may thrive in an environment of higher expectations. Even advanced students can benefit by becoming peer tutors, which, according to the National Education Association, has been linked to achievement gains, especially in reading.
The School Psychologist Files states that there are some potential drawbacks to inclusion classes and that they may not be appropriate for all students. Some students may become overwhelmed or overstimulated in this type of setting and may not be able to keep up with the faster pace of instruction. Some special education students may need more individual attention in some subjects, which can be provided in settings such as resource rooms.