RESEARCH ON INCLUSIVE EDUCATIONAL-PROGRAMS, PRACTICES, AND OUTCOMES FOR STUDENTS WITH SEVERE DISABILITIES

Nineteen research investigations of inclusive educational programs, pr actices, and outcomes for students with severe disabilities are review ed. The studies represent a broad diversity of questions, methodologie s, and participants. The focus of each investigation fell into one of five categories: (a) parents' perceptions of the pursuit and impact of inclusive educational placement, (b) issues and practices in inclusiv e schools and classrooms, (c) the cost of inclusive educational placem ent, (d) educational achievement outcomes for students in inclusive cl assrooms, and (e) social relationships and friendships in inclusive se ttings. Six broad themes that emerged through triangulation across stu dies offer guidelines for research and practice in inclusive schools i n the coming decade.