This document begins with a paper titled "Accommodating for Greater Student Variance in Local Schools" by Jacqueline Thousand and Richard Villa, which identifies the fundamental characteristics of successful heterogeneous public schools and describes specific examples of educational and organizational practices that enable schools to accommodate…

This digest explores the concept of mentoring with gifted students and offers guidelines on its implementation. The literature on mentoring is reviewed, noting the maturing effect of mentor relationships and the particular value of mentors for disadvantaged students and for females. Among six guidelines offered are: decide what (not whom) the…

This booklet examines the plight of homeless families who have children who need special educational services. It explores the magnitude of homelessness among families, provides empirical descriptions of homeless populations, and identifies factors contributing to the rising incidence of homelessness in the United States. Specific effects of…

This information sheet, based on "Flexible Pacing for Able Learners" by Neil Daniel and June Cox, defines flexible pacing as any program in which students are taught material that is appropriately challenging for their ability and allows them to move forward in the curriculum as they master content and skill. The document outlines…

A basic overview of experiential education is provided in this fact sheet. Topics covered include: (1) a definition of experiential education; (2) learners' needs and educational goals that can be met through experiential education; (3) descriptions of six types of experiential education programs; (4) guidelines for 10 key areas to consider when…

This fact sheet provides a general overview of career education and career guidance programs and practices for gifted and talented students. Topics covered include: (1) a definition of gifted and talented students; (2) the importance of early identification; (3) characteristics of the gifted and talented; (4) career development needs in the areas…

This booklet examines what is known about the long-term effects of exposure in utero to alcohol and other drugs, as well as the educational implications of those effects. Research is synthesized on biological and medical risk factors, psychosocial risk factors, and the interaction of biology and environment. A section on implications for…

This review of technical education research and development examines the literature, highlights the applications of research and development, and establishes priorities for future research and development. It is also designed to provide relevant information on definitions and sources pertaining to technical education so that the novice in the…

This book provides a picture of comprehensive children's services from a global, theoretical perspective, as well as a more practical guide to the potential roles for participating service providers and the structuring of such programs. Following an introduction, the volume is organized into 14 chapters: (1) "Moving from Cooperation to…