Literature is reviewed indicating that programs serving handicapped and nonhandicapped preschool children have been labeled inconsistently, with few attempts to identify specific variables which discriminate program types. Suggested are the terms "integrated special education" (with a high proportion of handicapped) and "mainstreamed" (with a low…

Recommendations for surveillance programs include: (1) screening systems should include multiple sources of data for decision making; (2) conceptually, screening should include procedures that assess the ongoing transaction between the child and the caregivers in his/her environment; and (3) surveillance should be conducted serially over time.…

Discusses the components of peer-mediated instruction and interventions (PMII) (including peer modeling, peer initiation training, peer monitoring, peer networking, peer tutoring, and group-oriented contingencies) and instructional systems that incorporate PMII components with other elements of effective instruction. Explores implications for…

Examines the current state of higher education programs for students with disabilities. Defines essential program standards and components, and explores related service delivery issues. Makes recommendations for student services professionals who strive for full participation by people with disabilities in all institutions of higher education.…

A literature review identified characteristics of transition programs that were described in 33 refereed journal articles between 1986-1999. Results confirm that students with more severe learning and behavioral difficulties receive inadequate transition services; programs emphasize employment competencies over living skills; and there are few…

This paper analyzes the philosophy and goal strategies of transition programs, focusing on criteria for success, needs of the disabled, training of personnel, staffing, client controls, the pre-transition school environment, the adult transition environment, and integration into adult society. Several recommendations for improved transition…

Explores the period between the end of high school and the beginning of college. Focuses on transition programs for undergraduate students of traditional age with disabilities and examines legislative impetus; state activities; model transition programs; transition results; and implications for campus student services staff, such as campus…

Looks at the literature on retention, ecosystems theory, and new roles for student affairs, with an emphasis on involving students with disabilities in the university. Examines value-added outcomes, human worth and dignity, trust, communication, and other values. Explores a three-step model and outlines the responsibilities of student affairs…

Explores why few disabled students of color use student services. Details why some of these students were unnecessarily placed in special education programs and focuses on the experiences of this group. Addresses general cultural differences that can affect responses between people of color and disability services. Provides guidelines for service…

This article provides information on special education topics on the international front. Topics range from a BrailleNote project in British Columbia, a Swedish program to help Romanian children with special needs, a visual resource room to help New Zealand students with visual impairments, and technology programs in European countries. (CR)

This article discusses the history of integrating services for students with disabilities and modern service integration initiatives. Examples of requirements for service integration are listed and interprofessional collaboration is described. The complexity, difficulties, and opportunities associated with school-related integration and…

This article shows how an understanding of phonological awareness can help teachers improve the reading skills of their students, particularly those at risk of failure. It examines the necessary components for a well-scaffolded program and possible adaptations that would be needed for learners who are at risk and those with disabilities. (Contains…

The mini reviews in this collection synthesize current information regarding three timely topics in outdoor education: utilizing adventure education as a treatment mode for juvenile delinquency; providing outdoor education for the handicapped; and developing outdoor education nature centers. In "Outdoor Adventure Education and Juvenile…

This fact sheet summarizes promising secondary education practices that special educators can employ to help improve the post-school outcomes of students with exceptional learning needs. These practices are organized into the following five categories: student-focused planning, student development, interagency collaboration, family involvement,…

This article provides background and a description of person-centered planning (PCP) based on process, components, and outcomes and examines each in relationship to working with culturally and linguistically diverse families. Vignettes illustrate how professionals can be sensitive to differences in culture and language within the process.…