Department of Special Needs Education (DSNE)
The Department of Special Needs Education (DSNE) -formerly known as the Norwegian Institute for Special Education (NISE) - was established in 1961 as a result of legislation stipulating a rationalisation and co-ordination of resources related to special needs education in Norway.
DSNE has expanded and developed through the years. In 1991 it became part of the University of Oslo, and five years later it was assimilated into the Faculty of Education.
There are approximately 70 staff members in the Department of Special Needs Education. An additional 20 staff members are connected to externally financed projects and co-operation with resource centres. A total of roughly 900 students receive foundational or intermediate-level instruction, or partake in the professional programme in Special Needs Education.
The department also offers a deaf interpreter course, studies in sign language and a Master of Philosophy in Special Needs Education. Continuing education is also an important area of study for the department.
Special needs education has developed as a response to teaching and training problems in connection with persons with disabilities in school and society in general. Special needs education has a multi-disciplinary, applicable approach to the learning, teaching and rehabilitation needs of children, young people and adults with disabilities.
Understanding the concept of disability has a central focus in special needs education. For those who work or have a connection with special needs education, it is essential to take up the debate of what the concept of disability entails in different contexts.