special education programs for students with intellectual disability in saudi arabia: issues and recommendations
Special education services in Saudi Arabia have received much attention over the past 15 years. This increased attention has been reflected in the increasing amount of such services offered, including services aimed at students with intellectual disability. However, the enormous expansion of special education services was not followed by development of the necessary related services to implement these programs effectively or by provision of a range of appropriate educational placements. The main purpose of this study was to explore the current situation of special education services for students with intellectual disability in Saudi Arabia in order to identify weaknesses and ways to improve upon the services. A descriptive non-experimental mixed method research design was used. Findings of this study concluded that four main issues must be addressed to advance the inclusion of students with intellectual disability and these are: programs that promote the segregation of students with intellectual disability and their teachers should be countered with more inclusive programs; individualized educational plan practices must be properly implemented; proper assessments and diagnoses must be made; and a proper official curriculum for special education programs must be designed. Future implications of this study are discussed. (As Provided)