"Inclusion: A case study from within" is a concentrated viewing of one central question: What does the classroom teacher view as meaningful special education practice in the inclusive classroom? It is an effort by a special educator to include the classroom teacher in the dialogue of special education practice while allowing the special educator to refine thought about inclusion by hearing and sharing the experience of inclusion with the classroom teacher. The perspective throughout remains that teaching is a dynamic complex process full of specific contexts defined by political, economic and social parameters. This is not a search for the elusive best practice but rather it is a search for workable inclusive practice precepts within the active construction of philosophy in work. Described are the beginnings of insights to guide further reflection, collaborative teacher thought and action, and of decisions about special education in the classroom against the discovery of inner voice in reflection on action, through action, and in action. / ix, 105 leaves ; 29 cm.

Implementing the educational model of inclusion for students with diverse learning needs into mainstream classrooms requires skilled teamwork amond parents, classroom teachers, special education teachers, and teacher assistants. Teacher assistants, a fundamental part of the school system, are essential participants in the individualized programming for students with diverse learning needs. These individuals, the front line workers, are significant adults in students' lives; they can positively transform attitudes, skills, and learning for students with diverse learning needs. Subtle messages of devaluation and hierarchical divisions can make teacher assistants cognizant of "their place" in the school. Additionally, a perceived lack of educational and behaviour management strategies can exacerbate feelings of insecurity and, or, incompetence. It is essential that teacher assistants receive the necessary training, professional development, and opportunities for collegiality to become effective educational partners. An "empowering" environment for teacher assistants respects the needs of adult learners and employs mentoring qualities for on-the-job training. Finally, an empowering environment provides a safe learning climate through transformational practice. The metamorphosis into increased learning and appropriate risk-taking evident in teacher assistants can enhance the lives of students with diverse learning needs. In this study, six teacher assistants from a rural southern Alberta school district were interviewed to identify and explore factors in an "empowering" work environment that may positively contribute to individuals becoming effective, committed teacher assistants. / ix, 138 leaves ; 28 cm.

This thesis represents an interpretive exploration into the experiences of First Nations' children who were receiving special education services and who had a history of receiving special education services. My purpose was to discover "What is a 'special' education for First Nations' children?" I began with the stories which brought me to this inquiry and the literature which connected with those stories. Then through open-ended interviews, eight First Nations' children gave stories that spoke of their experiences. My interpretations of their stories were reflected within the context of my non-Native culture, knowledge and experiences. The interpretations were offered as possible ways of seeing and knowing the experiences of the First Nations' children and as possible ways of opening oneself to respecting an-'other' way of seeing and knowing. My exploration led me to see anew what a 'special' education might be for First Nations' children. / vii, 160 leaves ; 29 cm.