This paper reviews Lev Vygotsky's theories concerning optimizing of potential through assistance, support, or instruction. The paper notes that there is a "zone of proximal development" or a band around intelligence quotient (IQ) scores reflecting one's true potential. IQ tests are generally well-standardized and "static,"…

The monograph describes the application of flexible pacing as a means of meeting the educational needs of gifted students in schools throughout the country. Flexible pacing is defined as placing students at an appropriate instructional level and allowing them to move forward in the curriculum as they master content and skills. Flexible pacing is…

The paper describes an inservice workshop on learning disabilities for college faculty including the processes used to assess needs and promote inservice involvement. Positive inservice evaluations suggested attainment of program goals of providing information about learning disabilities and discussing ethical and pedagogical issues concerning…

The article discusses conceptual principles which underpin development of consultation-based programing for students with mild disabilities, proposes informal standards for ecological evaluation of specific formats, and identifies factors (such as administrative support and participatory planning and decision making) that maximize the potential…

This article describes programing modifications and transition techniques for educators planning for the reentry of a child with a head injury. Discussion addresses: gathering information about the child; preparing school staff; preparing the student for the return; providing homebound instruction; modifying schedules to alleviate physical…

Variables impacting on the communication skill development of the mainstreamed child with hearing impairments include physical and environmental factors, child/student factors, teacher/service provider factors, peer and classmate factors, classroom arrangement and environment, teacher and curriculum adaptations, student responsibilities and…

Off-campus education is an experiential method of learning that integrates a student's classroom studies with on-the-job experiences obtained at an employing organization. Off-campus education programs are based on a partnership among the school, the parents, the student, and the employing organization, with each of the partners sharing the…

This sourcebook contains nine papers on various aspects of collaborative learning for students with emphasis on college level instruction (though some material relevant to secondary elementary education is also included). Contributors address what collaborative learning is, how is it implemented, how to assess it, and where it is used. Each…

This text, intended for school principals and others, provides an overview of the inclusion movement. Chapter 1, "The Context: How Far Have We Come and Where Are We Going?" (Patrick J. Schloss) provides the historical and legal context in which the concept of inclusion evolved. Key terms are defined, and the benefits of inclusion for students with…

A questionnaire survey canvassed the views of 72 New Zealand educators, in order to identify gaps or deficiencies in services and to establish priorities for development. Respondents were asked to comment on special education system strengths, growing points, desirable policy directions, and special interests. Four issues emerged as central to…

This project attempts to provide a comprehensive list of recently written, high quality journal articles relating to the subject of Native Americans and special education, handicapping conditions, social and medical issues that may contribute to handicapping conditions, and alternative teaching methods that can be used to help Native Americans in…

Papers and materials contributed by four panelists are provided from a panel presentation. "Unlocking Potential in Gerontology" (Theodore W. Wischropp) explains the make-up and organization of two consortia involved in the aging projects in Kansas, briefly describes three federally funded grants, and addresses some issues from the…

This booklet examines the unique difficulties of delivering education services to at-risk children and youth with exceptionalities who live in rural areas. An introductory chapter considers the extent of the problem and identifies such strategies as providing self-esteem education, appropriate preservice and inservice training,…

This curriculum guide is intended to assist educators to maximize the performance of gifted students and others in required subject areas and is keyed to initiatives of the Kansas State Board of Education (KSBE). Part 1, the introduction, describes the guide's development, states the guide's purpose, specifies the students to be served, and…

This guide presents a model for designing an early childhood program that educates children with and without disabilities in the same classroom setting. Its system of instruction is developmentally appropriate for preschool children and provides effective early intervention for young children with disabilities. It focuses on creating an…