International Outreach
Advancing Special Education Practice Worldwide
CEC works with other countries to help them enhance their services
for students with disabilities. An essential aspect of CEC's
international outreach is its Division of International Special
Education and Services (DISES). DISES promotes international
communication, cooperation, and progress in education and services for
children who have disabilities and/or gifts and talents. DISES serves as
a catalyst for the international exchange of special education practice,
promotes international research, and sponsors forums for professional
development, and establishes networks that foster international
association.
A significant part of CEC's work in international special education
is its collaboration with DISES and the Step by Step Programs* to
improve inclusive education in 29 countries. CEC offers professional
development resources and multi-media training tools to international
educators and hosts a section on the CEC Web site, by which
international educators can access materials to guide their work. CEC
also provides these educators with mentoring from U.S. and European
experts as well as technical assistance on disability issues.
Additionally, through its International Outreach program, CEC hosts
educational delegates from the world over. These delegates are sponsored
by the U.S. Department of State, International Visitor Program, and
other private international organizations. Each year, numerous educators
from other nations attend CEC's Annual Convention & Expo. A
highlight of CEC’s convention is the International Showcase
Session, at which invited international guest speakers present.
* CEC's work in this area is supported by a grant from The Open
Society Institute
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