Which teaching approach is considered most inclusive for students with disabilities?

The co-teaching model in general education classrooms is considered the most inclusive approach for students with disabilities because it allows for the integration of students with diverse learning needs within a general education setting. In this model, special education teachers collaborate with general education teachers to support all students. This collaboration facilitates differentiation of instruction and enables tailored support, which helps to accommodate the unique learning styles and challenges of students with disabilities.

By being part of the general education environment, students with disabilities benefit from exposure to their typically developing peers, which can promote social skills, foster relationships, and enhance academic achievement through inclusive practices. The co-teaching approach also allows for shared responsibility, enabling educators to address varied instructional needs more effectively within the same classroom context.

Other models, such as the pull-out resource model and self-contained classrooms, may limit interactions between students with disabilities and their peers, reducing opportunities for inclusion and collaboration. Online learning platforms can provide flexibility, but they may lack the personal interaction and in-person support that are essential for many students with disabilities. Thus, co-teaching best supports inclusive education principles by blending efforts and resources in a shared learning environment.