Focusing on human exceptionalities across the life span, the text employs a traditional organization beginning with four foundations chapters that introduce teachers to special education, followed by ten "categorical" chapters each on a different "disability." Each categorical chapter features sections on transition, cultural diversity, technology, instructional strategies, and family considerations.

In the Fourth Edition Media Update of Special Education in Contemporary Society, author Richard Gargiulo provides a highly readable and research-based introduction to special education. This book is based on the author’s belief that teachers need more than just academic knowledge about exceptionality—they need an awareness and understanding of the human side of students with special needs and their families.

The Fourth Edition Media Update can be packaged with an Interactive eBook that offers new video clips of educators, parents, and individuals with special needs talking about their experiences. Icons appear throughout the Media Update linking the book to the interactive eBook features.