Michael Farrell was educated in the United Kingdom. After training as a teacher at Bishop Grosseteste College, Lincoln, and obtaining an honours degree from Nottingham University, he gained a Masters Degree in Education and Psychology from the Institute of Education, London University. Subsequently, he carried out research for a Master of Philosophy degree at the Institute of Psychiatry, Maudsley Hospital, London and for a Doctor of Philosophy degree under the auspices of the Medical Research Council Cognitive Unit and London University.
Professionally, Michael Farrell worked as a head teacher, a lecturer at London University and as a local authority inspector. He managed a national psychometric project for City University, London and directed a national project developing course structures and training materials for initial teacher training for the United Kingdom Government Department of Education.
His present work as a special education consultant includes policy development and training with local authorities, work with voluntary organisations and universities, support to schools in the private and maintained sectors, and advice to government ministries.
His latest book, Educating Special Children is an indispensable companion for anyone requiring an overview of provision that has proved effective for children with learning disorders and disabilities.
Dr Michael Farrell guides the reader through what can be labyrinthine complexities of special education, providing educators with a road map to the most effective methods of provision currently being used. By concentrating on individual disabilities and disorders and not relying on the education system of any one country, Dr Farrell explores many key issues.
In addition, this authoritative text provides advice and support that is relevant to educating pupils in a range of settings. The importance of multi-professional working is explored and analyzed. Based on many years of experience, and drawing on expertise from all corners of the globe, this is the definite guide to special education today.
