What would schools and classrooms look like if they truly mirrored our democratic ideals? In this issue of the Occasional Papers, five authors explore current and historical questions related to the inclusion of children with disabilities in public schools. The history of educating children with disabilities--an ongoing civil rights issue--has…

The article describes a social skills training group for 10 British autistic children (ages 9-16 years) which aimed to integrate them into the regular classroom. The weekly sessions were held over 4 years and followed guidelines of G. Mesibov and S. Spence. (Author/DB)

Suggestions for implementing cooperative learning strategies with mildly handicapped students in mainstreamed, resource room, and self-contained classroom settings are given. Guidelines are presented for: selecting a format for cooperative learning; establishing working guidelines; forming groups; arranging the classroom; developing cooperative…

Considers the potential of social-constructivist ideas of teaching and learning for pupils with learning difficulties from a British perspective. Reports on a study with a class of eight students with moderate learning disabilities studying the local community. Benefits to individual students in the development of conceptual understanding and…

The RE-FOCUS Program at Ruskin High School in Kansas City, Missouri, helps at-risk students to redefine their efforts in social behavior and academic success. When inappropriate behavior occurs and the classroom teacher needs assistance, the student is taken out of his/her regular school environment and assigned in the RE-FOCUS room. The program,…

The article describes activities of two education guidance centers in England providing short-term help to behavior disordered students ages 3-15. Program features include classroom-based intervention, individual and group therapy, interim special class placement, and work with families. Assessment and intervention practices are summarized, and…

This handbook describes an alternative educational setting to prepare secondary students (usually ages 12 to 14) with behavior disorders or problems for full integration into regular secondary school programs in Peterborough (Ontario). In the program, the student's time is highly structured and closely monitored. Students receive individual…