Which setting is considered the least restrictive for educational purposes?

In the context of educational settings, the least restrictive environment is primarily designed to integrate students with developmental disabilities alongside their typically developing peers to the greatest extent possible. A general education class represents this ideal environment because it allows students to participate in the same learning experiences as their peers, promoting inclusion and social interaction.

In this setting, students receive the benefits of interacting with a diverse group of classmates, which can enhance their social skills and provide a rich learning atmosphere. Moreover, it often leads to better academic outcomes and helps break down barriers associated with stigma or isolation that can occur in more segregated settings.

The other options, while they may provide necessary support and tailored instruction, are considered more restrictive because they limit the student’s engagement with the broader student body and may not provide the same level of social interaction and exposure to a collaborative learning environment. Thus, the general education classroom is the most inclusive, supporting the principle of education in the least restrictive environment.