Building an inclusive education and training system. What is next for educational psychologists in South Africa?

Abstract

AbstractThis paper discusses new policy and legislation in South Africa with regard to inclusive education, and the emerging new role for educational psychologists as opposed to the traditional ‘within-child’ deficit approach. The first part of this paper centres on the historical context in which policy emerged, and why the need for change was so critical. The second part examines a recent policy initiative,White Paper 6(Department of Education, July 2001) that signifies a shift to a more systemic approach to education support services, educational psychology and a focus on barriers to learning and participation experienced by learners. Finally, the paper presents a discussion of the challenges and implications of policy for the changing role of educational psychologists in South Africa.