Jenny Corbett

The power of language is overwhelming and this is shown in the way in which words are used to define, portray and explain people and situations. With this in mind, then, it is interesting to note how the language of "special needs" has always been composed of words and images which foster fear, mistrust, loathing and hostility - "idiot", "imbecile" and "moron" are frequently used as terms of abuse.; Whilst there has been considerable theorizing on the psychological and sociological aspects of special education, as well as a recognition of the influence of policies and politics, there has not yet been a concerted attempt to analyze the way in which language is used to create codes and images. This general lack of interest may be because semantics seem peripheral to special education: the focus has rather been on individual case studies, teaching programmes, legislation and practice.; Jenny Corbett, however, has a particular interest in the language of special needs. Over the past few years she has explored: the ways in which new discourses have emerged to challenge those of enlightened modernity; the political correctness of special needs language in the mid-1990s; and the ways in which imagery is changing as proud labels displace the legacy of negativity. In this book the author brings together the findings of these explorations as she looks at where the language of special needs has emerged from, where it seems to be going at present and what is likely to become of it in the near future. In order to more fully understand why some learners are marginalised and given an inferior status, says Jenny Corbett, it is important to explore the way in which language has been used.

The Language Of Special Needs

Bad Mouthing

Ying Xu

Since the Asian Financial Crisis (AFC) of 1997–98 large current account surpluses have accumulated in the countries of Asia and the Pacific with corresponding deficits elsewhere. The sharp plunge in global trade volumes during the global financial crisis has highlighted the need for ‘rebalancing’–focussing more on domestic sources of economic growth than on exports in some Asian economies. One key objective of the book is to elucidate the economic structures and policies that give rise to current account surpluses and imbalances and consider what policy adjustments could change them. Another objective is to show the link between financial systems, financial integration and the transmission of economic shocks between countries. The book offers new dimensions to understand ‘rebalancing’ and provides alternative and arguably more fundamental solutions to address imbalances. Rather than focusing on exchange rate misalignment, this book begins from the premise that the imbalances are a macroeconomic problem that reflects a mismatch between savings and investment in the surplus countries. Then, it examines exchange rate policies adopted by countries in the region and finds that part of the explanation for their currency strategy lies in their perceived need to build foreign exchange reserves to provide a buffer in case of instabilities. The book examines whether there are other possibilities for countries to insure against economic volatility by more actively and openly engaging with international capital markets. The studies show that closer financial integration, involving more open financial markets, with well-chosen partners, would be welfare-improving and should reduce the need for the counter-productive, self-insurance policies that result in foreign exchange accumulation.

Rebalancing Economies in Financially Integrating East Asia

Peter Clough

This book traces the major stages of thinking in the development of inclusive education. It provides overviews of the main theoretical influences: the medico-psychological model; sociological positions; curriculum studies; school effectiveness; and the impact upon policy and practice of the Disability Movement. Positioned and discussed in their historical contexts the book provides a synopsis and critique of the last 50 years, including the introduction of the term "Special Educational Needs," the practice of integration, and the present processes of inclusive education. The unique features of this book include personal reflections by a number of people who are considered to have had major influence in the

A Student's Guide

Theories of Inclusive Education

Janet Mitchell

The Role of Reputation

Banking Crises and Bank Rescues

Hisakazu Matsushige

Anne Daly

Dehne Taylor

A flexible labour market is widely regarded as a key factor in encouraging economic growth and prosperity. In recent years some economies have successfully reformed their labour markets, making part-time and flexible hours easier, limiting the restrictive practices of trade unions, encouraging training and the enhancement of the skills of those in the labour market, coping with the changing age profile of the workforce and in other ways. Other economies have been less successful at labour market reform and continue to struggle with outdated structures and practices. This book discusses the key elements of labour market reform, contrasting a country where reforms have been successfully carried through, Australia, with a country where reforms have been less successful, Japan. At the same time, this book challenges the conventional view that Australia is the lucky country for all its workers – given the rising hours worked for those in work and the difficulties for young people entering the labour market. Both countries also face issues in terms of an ageing population, and policy challenges in the design of safety nets and pension provision. The book thereby demonstrates to analysts of labour market reform worldwide the key elements of successful labour market reform, and the consequential effects when the reforms are carried through, or not.

Comparing Japan and Australia

Laggards and Leaders in Labour Market Reform

Supporting Inclusive Education is a case study of a London primary school which includes a wide range of learners. It looks at: different teaching and learning styles; the effective use of learning support assistants; responding to challenging behaviour; using specialist strategies; how to research inclusive education; and what makes for a connective pedagogy. It is written for an audience of teacher-researchers in a jargon-free style. Jenny Corbett is a leading expert in the field of inclusive education; her experience in supporting individual learners in mainstream education and the way she links theory to practice make this an essential read for all involved in the area.

Jenny Corbett

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