Special Education Research: A Turkish Perspective

This article presents a perspective on the current status of and future for special education research in Turkey. I begin with background information that briefly describes the history of special education in my country and the governmental context for research, educational research, and special education. Three issues that currently hamper special education research are identified: information dissemination, methodological difficulties, and a lack of collaboration among the important constituencies. Recommendations for more contact between researchers and policymakers, an increase in the use of certain research methodologies, and efforts to change societal attitudes about disabilities and research might improve the quality and quantity of Turkish special education research.