Why Special Schools are Better than Inclusive Education Programs?

You talk to an academician and they will tell you that lessons learned outside the school are usually more important than bookish knowledge. Academic lessons open your mind to observe and develop a pragmatic approach to life. And what we commonly refer to as life skills are though the crux of education system, are learned outside the classroom.

However, for children with physical impairments, the order of learning is just the reverse. Generally more sensitive and deliberate in their approach, life skills are among the first lessons to be taught. Schools for blind and special children incorporate their impairments in the course structure and formula methods likewise. This one fact alone rules out most points stated in favour of inclusive education.

However, should you still remain in doubt, consider this: you really want your child to feel socially included but at what cost. You wouldn't certainly dream of compromising vital self-dependence training and carefully grafted special skills within a course compatible to mainstream education. These are the pragmatic needs of your child and come foremost. And the harsh reality is that mainstream educational institutes in India lack the infrastructure and expertise to cater to your child’s needs. They can teach a sightless child brail, but it is only under a special education teacher can he learn to lead a truly independent life.

Besides, does the much overrated social inclusion of special children offer anything of value? The idealistic approach and reality are on two asymmetrical planes. His mates at school can be trained to pity their special classmates but respect is a value much deeper than that. Moreover, self-esteem and self-worth come before social acceptance, which is carefully worked upon by special education teachers. Once they are self-sufficient blossoming personalities, they will automatically gain respect elsewhere. And at their special school gives them the courage to try, for there will be others who perhaps are like them. They bond and understand that they are not alone-and this, is a powerful thought.

So, make the choice between a normal and special school wisely.