What does this research mean for the field?

While Special Olympics has made organizational and programmatic improvements over the past decade, ongoing evaluation is necessary to determine its alignment with current special education philosophies and to address prior critiques. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.SYNTHESIS. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The central aim is to review the changes made by Special Olympics over the past decade and assess its alignment with special education philosophies.

May 20, 2026

Orelove, Wehman, and Wood Revisited: An Evaluative Review of Special Olympics Ten Years Later

Key Points

The central aim is to review the changes made by Special Olympics over the past decade and assess its alignment with special education philosophies.
Reviewed historical context and impact of Special Olympics since 1982.
Evaluated modifications made by Special Olympics in response to earlier critiques.
Provided new suggestions for enhancing Special Olympics or developing community alternatives.
Identified specific improvements made by Special Olympics over the last ten years.
Noted ongoing critiques regarding the organization's alignment with modern special education values.
Highlighted areas requiring further improvement and potential new approaches.

Abstract

Ten years ago, Orelove, Wehman, and Wood (1982) critically evaluated Special Olympics. Their review included the history and impact of Special Olympics, positive aspects of Special Olympics, limitations of Special Olympics, and suggestions for improving Special Olympics. Since this article was published, Special Olympics has made a variety of modifications and improvements to its overall organization and program. Yet, Special Olympics continues to be researched and critiqued. Has Special Olympics implemented any of the suggestions for improvement outlined by Orelove et al., or does Special Olympics continue to be the antithesis of the current philosophies of special education? The purpose of this paper is to objectively review the changes Special Olympics has made over the past ten years and evaluate Special Olympics in 1992. Emphasis is given to the efforts Special Olympics has made to meet the concerns raised by Orelove, Wehman, and Wood. New suggestions will be provided for improving Special Olympics or for initiating community alternatives.

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Orelove, Wehman, and Wood Revisited: An Evaluative Review of Special Olympics Ten Years Later

Key Points

Abstract

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