Background: Respite care is an essential support for people with intellectual disabilities and their families; however, there is limited evidence examining different models of respite care. The present research examined quality of life among adults with intellectual disabilities using three different models of respite services in Ireland. Method:…

Because of the important role secondary special educators have in the transition to adulthood of adolescents with disabilities, it behooves educators to have an understanding of human development. The lifespan perspective on human development is particularly relevant to transition planning. Individuals with a lifespan perspective believe…

In order to meet the educational needs of the hard-core unemployed, an instructional program known as the "Alternative Career Center" was designed at Iowa Lakes Community College to prepare those identified by the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act for employment. After reviewing the literature on educational programs for the…

Reported here is the external summative evaluation of the Mountain-Plains program, a residential, family-based education program developed to improve the economic potential and lifestyle of selected student families in a six-state region. (For the internal summative evaluation see CE 014 682-684.) To determine the program's success in…

These 4 case studies examine the last years of high school and postschool experiences of 4 21-year-olds labeled mentally retarded. Issues discussed include school compliance with legislation concerning Individualized Education Programs, influence of parental involvement, adult services, and necessary employment supports. (JDD)