WEST-E Special Education Practice Test

Which strategy ensures that students with disabilities are included in general education settings?

1. Self-contained classrooms

2. Least Restrictive Environment approach

3. Traditional testing methods

4. Standard curriculum delivery

The correct answer is: Least Restrictive Environment approach

The Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) approach is a fundamental principle of special education that promotes the inclusion of students with disabilities in general education settings to the greatest extent possible. This strategy emphasizes that students with disabilities should be educated alongside their non-disabled peers, fostering an inclusive environment where they can learn, socialize, and develop skills within the context of a typical classroom. By prioritizing this approach, schools create opportunities for students with disabilities to access general education curriculum and interact with their peers, which can lead to improved academic and social outcomes. The LRE model is anchored in the belief that, with appropriate support and accommodations, students with disabilities can thrive in inclusive settings rather than being segregated in self-contained classrooms. This approach aligns with legal mandates such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which outlines the importance of providing an education in the least restrictive environment suited to the individual needs of each student.