Second edition of this popular textbook, which establishes the area of special education within an Irish context. *New to this edition: * Examines leadership within special educational needs * Addresses the concept of children with special educational needs participating in their own learning * Recent special educational needs research conducted in Ireland is included * New developments in the provision of special educational needs support. * Provides a foundation knowledge of and a framework for analysing and reflecting on issues in special education in Ireland. * Introduces the basic concepts underlying policy, practice and provision in this area. * Traces the development of special education policy and practice in Ireland within European and international contexts. * The Education of Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 (EPSEN) permeates the text. * An informal approach is used in presenting the philosophical and ethical issues underlying relevant policies and provision. * Reflective questions and/or case studies are provided at the end of each chapter. SUITABLE FOR * Undergraduate students in primary teacher education.
* Students completing the Postgraduate Diploma in Education for post-primary education. * Experienced teachers on Continuing Professional Development programmes.