summarize the history of special education globally
The history of special education globally has evolved significantly over the years. In the early stages, people with disabilities were often neglected or marginalized. However, in the 19th and early 20th centuries, there began a movement to provide education for individuals with disabilities.
The first significant step in this movement came in 1817 when the American School for the Deaf was established in Hartford, Connecticut. Following this, several specialized schools emerged worldwide to cater to the needs of specific disabilities such as blindness, deafness, and intellectual disabilities.
In the mid-20th century, the focus shifted toward inclusive education, which aimed to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. This concept gained momentum with the passing of laws, such as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act in the United States in 1975, which mandated free and appropriate education for children with disabilities.
The movement toward inclusive education expanded globally, with various countries adopting similar practices and enacting laws to protect the rights of students with disabilities. In 1990, the United Nations' General Assembly introduced the World Declaration on Education for All, emphasizing the importance of inclusive education for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
Throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the focus has been on providing individualized education plans and support services for students with disabilities. Assistive technologies and accommodations have significantly improved accessibility within educational settings.
However, challenges remain in achieving true inclusivity in education globally. Many countries still struggle with providing adequate resources, training, and support for students with disabilities. The concept and implementation of special education continue to evolve as societies recognize the importance of equity and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.