How does mainstreaming differ from inclusion?

Mainstreaming differs from inclusion primarily in the way it addresses the educational needs of students with special needs. When considering mainstreaming, it is centered around placing students with special needs, such as those who are deaf or hard of hearing, in general education classrooms for specific subjects while often requiring them to learn the same content as their peers. This means that in a mainstreamed setting, there may be less emphasis on adapting the curriculum or teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of all students.

In contrast, inclusion is a more holistic approach that integrates students with special needs into general education settings while providing support and modifications tailored to their individual requirements. Inclusion emphasizes creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment that values diversity and encourages all students to participate fully in the academic, social, and emotional life of the classroom.

This distinction reflects the broader philosophy guiding educational practices for students with disabilities, highlighting the importance of both access to the same materials and support for individual learning needs.