In search of a middle ground: A case study of special educational support in between ordinary school and segregated settings in Denmark

This case study examines emerging forms of schooling organised as mixtures of ordinary classrooms and special classes/special schools. In these arrangements, pupils considered to have special educational needs (SEN) can participate in ordinary classrooms together with pupils not considered to have special needs, while at the same time receiving support tailored to meet their needs. The study investigates the administrative rationales and arguments that school and municipal leaders have for creating special educational support between ordinary classes and segregated settings. Furthermore, the study investigates educational potentials, as well as challenges, that school leaders, municipal leaders, teachers, and pupils identify in relation to such intermediary support forms. Data come from Denmark, where such forms of innovative support currently seem to be increasing. This organisation of support offers educational opportunities and potentials and seems to be a way of enhancing the capacity of the ordinary school system to include a more diverse group of pupils. However, intermediary forms face a number of dilemmas and challenges as well. Based on qualitative data, this case study analyses and discusses the educational and organisational aspects of the new ways of organising teaching for pupils with SEN.