The History of Special Education and Reform | Becoming Helen Keller

Learn about Helen Keller’s work toward special education and reform in this video from the AMERICAN MASTERS documentary Becoming Helen Keller. Using video, discussion questions, teaching tips and an activity focused the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), students learn about the history of the critical law that ensures free public education to children with disabilities in the United States and provides special education and related services to those children.

Note: This video includes a quote from a speech given by Helen Keller in 1961 in which she uses the term “handicapped” to refer to children with disabilities. Point out to your students that this is an outdated and unacceptable term to use when referring to individuals or accessible parking or seating.