FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test 2026 - Free ESE Practice Questions and Study Guide

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) significantly shifted the terminology used to describe individuals with disabilities by changing the term "handicapped" to "disability." This change reflects a broader movement towards recognizing and respecting the rights of individuals with disabilities, promoting a more positive and empowering language. The use of "disability" aligns with a focus on the individual's capabilities rather than limitations, emphasizing their needs in an educational context. This new terminology not only helps to reduce stigma but also promotes a more accurate understanding of the experiences of those with disabilities within educational systems.