| Data regarding aspects of preschool special education service delivery from 59 special education planning districts in Indiana were examined in an attempt to describe patterns of service delivery. Specifically, analyses were designed to (a) determine the extent to which preschool services are provided in settings with peers without disabilities, and (b) determine the extent to which other practices, such as use of categorical labels, are associated with the provision of integrated services. Cluster analysis, a method of exploratory data analysis, was used to identify groupings of planning districts with similar practices on a number of variables related to the provision of preschool special education services. Results indicated that self-contained preschool classes in public school buildings appear to be the primary method of service delivery for preschool students with disabilities who receive special education services in a classroom setting. Cluster analysis revealed the recovery of a two cluster solution and a five cluster solution. The two cluster solution contained one group of planning districts primarily characterized by the use of self-contained classes, and another group of planning districts that used multiple settings, both integrated and self-contained, for preschool special education services. The Self-Contained cluster used a lower proportion of resource placements for preschool children with disabilities, and a higher proportion of related services than the Multiple Options cluster. Districts in the Self-Contained cluster identified a higher proportion of children as Mentally Handicapped and Learning Disabled, and a lower proportion of preschool children with Communication Disorders than in the Multiple Options cluster. The five cluster solution yielded variations on the service patterns displayed in the two cluster solution. Implications for facilitating the development of preschool special education service delivery options that better reflect policy and best practice concerns regarding service in the least restrictive environment are discussed. |
