Special Education in Contemporary Society: An Introduction to Exceptionalityoffers a comprehensive, engaging, and readable introduction to the dynamic field of special education. Grounded in research and updated to reflect the most current thinking and standards of the field, this book provides students with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and beliefs that are crucial to constructing learning environments that allow all students to reach their full potential. Authors Richard M. Gargiulo and Emily C. Bouck encourage a deep awareness and understanding of the "human" side of special education, providing students with a look into the lives of exceptional students and their families, as well as the teachers that work with exceptional persons throughout their lives. The Eighth Edition of this text has been updated with new information on specific disabilities and challenges, issues of diversity and equity within special education, and the latest statistics and research that are a hallmark of this book.