To integrate or not to integrate: Systemic dilemmas in Hong Kong

This article examines the policies and implementation of and barriers to integration within the parallel system of general and special education in Hong Kong. The article begins with a discussion of the history, organization, and current status of special education. Then, policies supporting integration and efforts to implement integration are discussed, followed by an analysis of systemic problems for integration and challenges to effective integration. Prospects for future special education services are considered. The author concludes that successful integration and quality provision of special education will rely on policies and governmental leadership in eliminating systemics problems such as elitism, a nonaccepting school culture and teacher attitudes, inadequate teacher training and qualifications, and inefficient resource allocation and monitoring.