This paper considers the measurement of person-centered planning with developmentally disabled individuals. It reports on the development of three instruments to assess person-centered planning and both a process and an outcome index. Psychometric evaluation indicated test-retest reliability and measures of internal consistency were adequate.…

This commentary on EC 605 926 examines the issue of whether the family or the individual with developmental disabilities should be the unit receiving services and discusses the impact of disability on the family. It concludes that the best interests of the family generally coincide with the best interests of the individual with disabilities. (JDD)

Discussion of the dynamics of individualized funding for providing services to people with developmental disabilities focuses on how individual funding may drive the changes necessary to develop services that offer highly customized assistance. This discussion considers why the concept of paying customers is powerful but misleading in light of…

This paper points out that the promise of supported living for individuals with developmental disabilities lies in its potential to deal creatively and individually with the complexities arising from the lives of many different individuals. The paper describes personal experiences of leaders in supported living agencies that enabled them to step…

This report contains the findings and recommendations of a review of the residential services system for South Dakota adults with developmental disabilities, based on site visits, interviews, and an analysis of documents and materials. The policy analysis report examines how South Dakota could implement a…

Reacting to an article describing the Individualized Support Project Program (EC 618 445) for young children with autism and their families, this article notes that the program's primary purpose is family preservation through restoring family efficacy, solving child behavior problems, and establishing child communication. The program is seen as…

Responding to an article (EC 618 445) describing an individualized program for young children with severe disabilities, including autism, and their families, this article notes features of the program such as its individualized nature, its emphasis on building capacity in families and early intervention providers, and its integrative practices…

Postschool outcomes for students with disabilities have been dismal for quite some time now. Although recent data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2 indicate some improvement, students with severe intellectual disabilities continue to transition into segregated employment at unacceptable rates in spite of a multitude of studies,…

This report presents findings of a Minnesota study group which reviewed the costs and structures under which developmental disabilities services are provided. The group conducted a series of town meetings throughout the state and concluded with a toll-free call-in day. Six themes emerged from the meetings: (1) "We have a lot to be proud of…

The report describes policies and services for individuals with developmental disabilities in Minnesota. It emphasizes changes in the way of thinking about individuals with developmental disabilities as knowledge increases concerning what they are capable of doing and what is important in their lives and how they can be supported in communities.…

Microcomputers can be an asset for the physical educator in dealing with special education students. Factors to keep in mind when exploring the use of computers in the classroom are offered. (DF)

This Texas state plan presents proposals for provision of services to people with autism. It is noted that less than 25 percent of the estimated 8,500 persons with autism in Texas are currently receiving services. Preliminary sections look at the nature of autism, the numbers of Texans with autism, the responsibilities of the Interagency Council…

Case studies of two students with pervasive developmental delays illustrate the conflict between belief-based versus measurement-based approaches to planning educational services for students with diverse abilities. The doctrinaire view embraces inclusion as an end in itself. Placing students with diverse abilities, even severely handicapping…

The reduction and prevention of mental retardation and the role of colleges in intervention are addressed in six articles. In "Current Status of Efforts in Prevention of Mental Retardation," Allen C. Crocker includes information on diseases and conditions that contribute to mental retardation. Kermit H. Diggs' article, "Tertiary…