Traditionally, mainstreamed students with disabilities are held to the same standards as typically developing students. This practice differs from inclusion, where children with disabilities are included in the regular classroom and receive support through comprehensive programming, though the terms are often used interchangeably. Mainstreaming has its advantages and disadvantages. …show more content…
They might not be able to go out and do the things their classmates can do, but they will be around a wider mix of people, and also be able to experience a less sheltered existence.
Another widely held belief is that by not segregating disabled students from their peers it can breed a much more tolerant attitude. If people experience being around somebody with a disability day to day, then it may just become the norm; other students would be able to get to know disabled students for who they are, rather than just the fact that they are disabled.
Some parents also believe that their children become much more confident after spending time in mainstream education. They feel that there is a stigma attached to special needs schools, and that by not attaching this to their child they are helping them to become more happy, and confident in their life.