THE ART OF INCLUSION: CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION

Abstract

The present study investigated the challenges and triumphs of special education in promoting the school inclusion of students with disabilities, with the objective of identifying the main factors that influence the inclusion process in Brazilian schools. The research had a bibliographic character, using works, dissertations, articles and academic documents to analyze the concepts and practices related to school inclusion. The models of specialized educational service (SES), adapted teaching methodologies, teacher training and the use of assistive technologies were addressed. The analysis of the data revealed that, although Brazilian legislation has advanced with regard to inclusion, there are significant barriers, such as the lack of adequate training of educators and the scarcity of adapted pedagogical resources. On the other hand, the results indicated that schools that adopt adapted methodologies and use assistive technologies show advances in the academic, social and emotional development of students with disabilities. Continuing education of teachers was identified as an essential factor for the success of the implementation of inclusive practices. The final considerations pointed to the need for new studies that deepen the analysis of the effectiveness of public inclusion policies, teacher training and school infrastructure. The research contributed to the understanding of the main challenges and solutions for school inclusion, suggesting the expansion of initiatives aimed at teacher training and the adaptation of schools to meet the diversity of students.