discuss the background history of special education. including citation, give reasons why people have negative attitudes towards persons with disabilities. With refferences.
Special education has a long and complex history that dates back to ancient civilizations. It was not until the 18th and 19th centuries, however, that formalized programs for individuals with disabilities began to emerge. Prior to this time, those with disabilities were often marginalized and excluded from mainstream society.
One of the earliest advocates for special education was Jean-Marc-Gaspard Itard, a French physician who worked with a deaf and blind boy named Victor. Itard's work with Victor laid the foundation for the development of specialized programs for individuals with disabilities.
The 20th century saw significant advancements in special education, including the passage of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) in the United States in 1975. This legislation mandated that all children with disabilities have access to a free and appropriate public education.
Despite these advancements, negative attitudes towards individuals with disabilities still persist in society. Some of the reasons for these negative attitudes include:
1. Misconceptions and stereotypes: People with disabilities are often viewed through a lens of stereotypes and misconceptions. This can lead to the belief that individuals with disabilities are less capable or less deserving of opportunities.
2. Fear of the unknown: Many people may fear what they do not understand, leading to negative attitudes towards those with disabilities. This fear can manifest in discrimination or exclusion.
3. Lack of awareness and education: Some individuals may hold negative attitudes towards people with disabilities simply because they have not been exposed to accurate information or education about disabilities.
4. Social stigma: Individuals with disabilities may face societal stigma and discrimination, which can contribute to negative attitudes towards them.
In order to combat these negative attitudes, it is essential to promote awareness, education, and understanding of disabilities. By challenging misconceptions and stereotypes, society can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for individuals with disabilities.
References:
Heward, W. L. (2013). Exceptional children: An introduction to special education. Pearson.
Heward, W. L. (2016). Exceptional children: An introduction to special education. Pearson.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. ยงยง 1400 et seq. (1975).
"People with Disabilities in the United States." (2020). National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/disabilities/conditioninfo/people.