Some Thoughts on International Perspectives in Special Education, With Special Attention to the Research-to-Practice Gap

Abstract

Our respective countries face some strikingly similar issues in special education-for example, the role of centralized laws and policies, funding constraints, movement toward inclusionary practices, and a research-to-practice gap. We focus on research-to-practice gap issues as one of the most pressing issues in the United States. By effectively addressing the problems associated with teacher education, teacher attrition, and teacher shortage in special education, we contend that great strides can be made in closing the gap.