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What's so special? Teachers models and their realisation in practice in segregated schools
- Authors:
- ADAMS Joan, SWAIN John, CLARK Jim
- Journal article citation:
- Disability and Society, 15(2), March 2000, pp.223-245.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
The concept of 'special' has played a crucial role in the development of educational policy and practice, and the meaning of the term has been the subject of far-reaching debates and controversy. This paper is based on research which explored the meaning of 'specialness' in theory and practice from the point of view of practitioners working in segregated schools, providing education for young people designated as having moderate and severe learning difficulties. The research demonstrates the articulation of the individual model of special in teachers' thinking about pupils, themselves and their relationships with pupils, and also in the learning environment provided for different categories of young people. The authors argue that the dominant discursive practices of practitioners construct and maintain 'otherness' in special education, and pre-empt alternative discourses.
Parent-professional power relations: parent and professional perspectives
- Authors:
- SWAIN John, WALKER Caron
- Journal article citation:
- Disability and Society, 18(5), August 2003, pp.547-560.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
This paper reflects on a small-scale qualitative research study around the establishment of a conductive education centre in a city in the north of England. From the outset, the centre's existence presented a challenge to existing services because the monopoly control of existing professional practice and policy was under question. The research does not offer an evaluation of the effectiveness of conductive education. The task was to examine the centre's provision in relation to existing statutory services, and provide a forum for informed discussion relating to the provision and organisation of multi-professional services for disabled children. The paper suggests that, although there was a mutual tension between the centre and professionals, a number of pointers could become a starting point for a more equitable partnership between parents and existing service providers. The authors also argue, however, that such a notion of partnership is limited without the voices of disabled people.