Keynote Address: Inclusive Education: Where are we?

Abstract

Inclusive education is a concept that is difficult to define and is polemic in nature. Depending on which state of Australia or country you are in there will be a different interpretation and understanding as to what inclusion should look like. In Italy, for example, all the specialist schools were closed down in the 1970s therefore placing 'all' students into mainstream classes. This seminar considers the current position in Australia and considers the influence of international legislation such as the Salamanca Statement. The current position of where we are with regards to inclusive education is discussed as well as an attempt at an explanation as to what exactly inclusion is and how different policy makers interpret it. Finally, teacher education is discussed considering how important teacher attitudes are to successful inclusive education.