Handbook of Research on Challenging Deficit Thinking for Exceptional Education Improvement

Exceptional education, also known as special education, is often rooted in exclusive and deficit mindsets and practices, leading to disproportionate identification of culturally and linguistically diverse students, especially Black and Indigenous students. This book provides a critical analysis of current practices, mindsets, and policies to end the harm and liberate vulnerable populations. It covers topics such as accelerated learning, educator preparation programs, and intersectional perspectives and is a dynamic resource for teachers, practitioners, and policymakers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 420 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2021
Publisher: IGI Global

Exceptional education, also referred to as special education, is frequently underpinned by exclusive and deficit-oriented mindsets and practices. Extensive research has highlighted persistent challenges in accurately identifying culturally and linguistically diverse students, particularly Black and Indigenous students. Moreover, there has been a consistent reliance on placing marginalized students in more restrictive learning environments, often beginning in Pre-K. In the realm of exceptional education, practitioners frequently prioritize disability over ability in instructional approaches, behavior management strategies, identification of related services, and educational setting placement decisions. These practices, among others, have contributed to a flawed system that perpetuates perceptions of deviance, inadequacy, and systemic oppression among students with exceptionalities.

To address these detrimental practices and experiences, the Handbook of Research on Challenging Deficit Thinking for Exceptional Education Improvement brings together current theory and practices to provide a roadmap for ending the current harm and liberating the most vulnerable populations. Through a critical examination of prevailing practices, mindsets, and policies, this book offers valuable insights for practitioners in exceptional education, general teachers, social workers, psychologists, educational leaders, organizational leaders, the criminal justice system, law enforcement agencies, government agencies, policymakers, curriculum designers, testing companies, current educational practitioners, and administrators.

The Handbook explores a range of topics, including accelerated learning, educator preparation programs, and intersectional perspectives. It serves as a dynamic resource for educators seeking to implement direct and explicit actions at various levels to dismantle the harm and foster inclusive and equitable educational environments for all students. By challenging deficit thinking and promoting a more inclusive and equitable approach to exceptional education, this book aims to empower practitioners to create transformative change and create a more just and equitable society for all.

Dimension: 279 x 216 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781799888604