Chapter 6: The School Psychologist in the special Education Process

Psychology is a science and teaching is an art (James, 2001). Therefore, it is important from the outset to appreciate that any combination of these two will clearly call for a unique blend of scientific knowledge and skilled applied practice. Thus, unlike some of their laboratory-bound colleagues, educational psychologists are applied scientists who work across the social contexts of the school, the family, and society. Educational psychology loosely defined is the application of psychological theories, research, and techniques to the educational development of people in contexts of the home, school, and community. Educational psychologists are also referred to as school psychologists and counselors. More specifically, school psychology is the application of psychological principles to the education of children. Drawing upon its own knowledge base and that of related fields, including clinical and educational psychology, school psychology focuses on the individual study of children’s learning and adjustment primarily in educational settings.