What is "inclusion" in the context of special education?

• A. The practice of excluding students with disabilities from general education classrooms
• B. The approach of providing separate education for all students with disabilities
• C. The practice of educating students with disabilities in general education classrooms alongside their peers
• D. The method of assessing only students with disabilities outside of regular classrooms

Answer: (C)

Inclusion in the context of special education refers to the practice of educating students with disabilities in general education classrooms alongside their peers without disabilities. This approach values diversity and recognizes the benefits of having students with varying abilities learn from and interact with one another. Inclusion promotes a sense of belonging, supports social interactions, and provides opportunities for all students to participate in a shared learning environment. This method emphasizes the importance of collaboration among educators, support staff, and families to meet diverse needs within the general education setting, fostering an inclusive culture that benefits everyone involved.

The other options contrast sharply with the principles of inclusion by either suggesting exclusion or separation, which go against the fundamental philosophy of integrating all students regardless of their abilities.