A scoping review of the research related to special education placement decisions in Canada

Abstract

This scoping review provides an overview of the research related to educational placement decisions for students with special educational needs over a 20-year period in Canada. While educational placement has received considerable research attention in countries such as the United States, few studies have focused on the nature of the decision-making process in the Canadian context. Following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews, the study characteristics, research methods and research foci were identified in the included articles as well as the stakeholders and students represented in the research. While diverse stakeholders were represented, including students with special educational needs themselves, few studies featured multiple stakeholders. Themes are discussed relative to the research context, such as special education systems and structures and teacher training to support inclusive practice. The limitations and implications for future research are also discussed relative to the findings from the review.