The Position of Special Education in Finland. No. 2, 1975.

Overview & Synopsis

Described are the planning, organization, provision, availability, and different organizational solutions of special education in Finland. The philosophy of special education is reported to closely follow Finnish school reform which emphasizes meeting the individual child's needs. Discussed are the availability of special education and special teachers, and the future plan to include special education content in the training of regular teachers. It is noted that the number of special schools is decreasing and that present emphasis is on increasing and improving clinic-type special education, remedial instruction, pupil welfare services given in connection with normal schools, and prevention of difficulties. Reviewed are educational programs (municipal and state) for cerebral palsied children and children with aural and visual handicaps. Included are two charts: one on the number of teachers and pupils in special education in 1973-74, and the other showing special education organization in the Finnish school system. (SB)