The Principle of Inclusion: Similarities and Differences in General and Higher Education in Chile

Abstract

This article analyzes the current legislation regarding educational inclusion for general education, and then this is contrasted with those indications about inclusion in the bill for higher education under discussion in Congress. Thus, we consider the stated objectives and scope for both legal regulations, complemented by contrasting what exists and what is envisioned for the two different levels of education. In reviewing these laws, we conclude that there are similarities and substantive differences regarding the inclusion concept in both educational levels. In fact, for general education, inclusion is promoted in the context of socioeconomic segregation of schools; therefore, it focuses on the inclusion of students of different social and cultural origin within them. On the other hand, the educational reform of higher education emphasizes inclusion from the standpoints of universal gratuity and a system of "fair" access, promoting the inclusion of a diversity of students in the system as a whole.