The nature and definitions of SEN

The nature and definitions of SEN

1. Coulston and Smith, 2013 Inclusion = best practices and shared values Providing support needed for growth and development

2. UNCRPD, 2006 Needs new thinking about disabled pupils Need to move away from SEN deficit model to an empowering-rights based view The idea of SEN is evolving (bring in historic reference here!!)

3. Difference in Special need (ESOL) Special educational need (dyslexia)

4. is SEN a contested concept

   • Isaksson et al. 2010 Schools are arenas for catagorisation
   • Terzi, 2005 Concept of sen is theoretically difficult to specify in practice
   • Ofsted, 2004 Found wide variations in what was being catagorised as sen

5. Models of SEN

   • Tragedy or psycho-medical model The tradition ideology through western society has conceptualised SEN
   • Medical Model Governed by 3 essential elements: Assess what symptoms a child presents with Diagnose and label the condition or syndrome Cure or treat the condition or syndrome
     • Criticisms: Theoretically weak Locates the causation but does not give solutions
   • Social model: Vitally important means of overcoming the prejudicial attitudes shown by society
     • This model is theoretically flawed this model doesn’t address the idea that disabled people cannot be happy or enjoy an adequate life…
   • Rights based model Recognises the existence of structural discrimination against disabled people in society
     • On education - All children should attend a mainstream school based within the community

6. Is it stigmatising or supporting of children’s learning and social needs

   • labelling theory
   • self fulfilling prophecy