Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam

What is mainstreaming in the context of education?

1. Educating exceptional children solely in special classrooms

2. Integration of exceptional children into traditional classrooms for part of the day

3. Providing isolation for exceptional children

4. Offering only specialized programs for children with special needs

The correct answer is: Integration of exceptional children into traditional classrooms for part of the day

Mainstreaming refers to the practice of integrating exceptional children—those with disabilities or special needs—into traditional classrooms for part of their educational experience. This approach helps to foster social interactions with typically developing peers, allowing exceptional children to benefit from the resources and curriculum of general education classrooms. It promotes inclusivity and a sense of belonging, while also ensuring that students can receive specialized support when necessary. By being part of a mainstream classroom, these students can engage with a broader range of academic and social experiences, which is essential for their development. The other options highlight practices that do not align with mainstreaming. Providing education solely in special classrooms or offering only specialized programs limits the interaction and integration of exceptional children with their peers. Moreover, providing isolation contradicts the fundamental goal of mainstreaming, which is to create an inclusive environment. Thus, mainstreaming stands out as it balances the needs for special education services with the benefits of being included in a general education setting.