Segregation is the process by which children with special needs or disabled children are identified as a seperate group and are educated in special schools in the company of other disabled children of the same category being alienated from the parents, siblings, non-disabled peers and their own community.
Gradually, the social and physical distance between this segregated group and the normal children increases.
Inclusion is the process of bringing the parts (the handicapped children) to the whole (the society). The process begins by physical proximity. It continues with mutual sharing of the physical facilities and progresses towards reduction of social distance.
The reduction of the physical and social distance results in social integration in which the groups become equal partners in the community.
Many educationists nullify the idea of segregated education on the ground that it doesnot equalize educational opportunities rather it creates a feeling of differentiation among the children. Special classes create a feeling of inferiority complex among disabled children.
Normal mental growth of child is possible - Here, the disabled gets the chance to enjoy along with normal children. Every child feels that he is in no way inferior to anyone.
Social integration is ensured - Children get wider community integrated setup and this is conductive for the disabled ones to learn social virtues along with normal ones.
Less expensive - Keeping a disabled child in a normal class is much less expensive and more advantageous than placing him in a special setup.
Integration is possible through Inclusive education - A natural environment is created for interaction of the disabled with non-disabled peers. The students in normal set-ups also acquire a sense of competency and emotional adjustment.
Academic Integration is possible - With a sophisticated environment and upto date curriculum, inclusive education brings academic integration.
Principle of equality is maintained - The very objective of equality can be maintained through inclusive setups so that no student should think him self inferior to other.