An introduction to research in inclusive education : Empirical evidence for supporting an inclusive approach for students on the autism spectrum

Inclusive education is an international priority featuring in a range of international declarations, laws, and policies. These significant advances, promoting the human rights of all children to attend their local school, together with international research, have shown the benefits of inclusive education for students with disabilities as well as for their peers. There is evidence to suggest that including students with disabilities also supports improvements in teaching practice that benefits all students. This research will influence how education systems, schools, and teachers commit to inclusive education in the future. This chapter provides an introduction to inclusive education research and presents consistent evidence to support short-term and long-term benefits of an inclusive approach. Further, the chapter specifically presents an overview of the evidence drawn from international research that focuses on inclusive education for students on the autism spectrum. Many students on the autism spectrum have difficulty accessing, participating in, and engaging in inclusive education programs and in achieving successful outcomes. This chapter provides evidence to support future policy and planning for improved inclusive education programs and builds a shared understanding that inclusive education is a global movement to support equitable and quality education