Historical overview of developments in special education in Ireland

Abstract

In reviewing the history of special education within Ireland, it becomes evident that significant milestones within this area cannot be considered in isolation from broader developments within Irish society and internationally. It is also clear that our understanding of what constitutes ‘disability’ within society has evolved considerably over time. The origins of special education were marked by interventions designed to address the learning needs of disabled children and young people. It is relatively straightforward to characterise the history of special education worldwide as encompassing three broad eras: segregation; institutionalisation; and integration/inclusion within mainstream society. However, on closer inspection, it is evident that the historical evolution of special education is not simply linear and provision through the ages has been influenced by a complex mix of societal attitudes, perceived capacity to cope with difference and individual initiatives. Special education, as we recognise it, really emerged in the twentieth century, though there were examples of innovations in earlier centuries. Within this chapter we will examine key milestones in the evolution of special educational provision with a particular focus on how segregated provision has been replaced by an inclusive model of provision as outlined in recent legislation. We will begin by examining some innovations in special education pioneered in earlier centuries, though we must not construe these individual initiatives as constituting a broad national movement.