Based on a set of recommendations approved by the National Task Force on School Consultation, this article presents a detailed rationale and guidelines for establishing special education consultation programs. Guidelines are focused on seven critical areas: financing, referral practices, performance standards, teacher skills, caseloads,…

A review of research on the school consultation process as it relates to handicapped students focuses on issues in case problem solving, establishing and maintaining effective consultant-consultee relationships, and evaluating consultation outcomes. Topics discussed include interpersonal variables, relationship building, managing consultee…

A consultation model for examining and selecting assessment and instructional strategies for mainstreamed, mildly handicapped students is proposed in the context of variables which affect student success (e.g., teacher and peer attitudes) and principles for selecting effective intervention strategies (e.g., how effectively a skill will generalize…

A taxonomy was created to measure skills used by consultants and time engaged in various consultation activities. A case study involving use of the taxonomy is reported, with data focusing on: (1) student outcome, and (2) the consultation process, which is described in terms of participants, phases, and behavioral activities. (Author/JDD)

Mental health, behavioral, and process consultation models are described as three theoretical approaches to the practice of school-based consultation. Drawing from each of these models, an ecological model of consultation is offered as a conceptual umbrella for planning entry, assessment, intervention, and evaluation activities with handicapped…

Despite the growing momentum of the special education consultation movement, data indicate that in practice special educators spend very little time in a consulting role. The article examines the emergence of the consulting movement and barriers impeding the integration of consultation into the role of the special educator. (Author/JW)

The article discusses how the collaborative relationships of classroom, remedial, and special education teachers might be improved to develop specialized reading programs for low achieving and handicapped students. A decision-making framework based on levels of intensity of instruction is offered for the stages of the consultative process.…

The article discusses the future of consultation as a special education service delivery model in the context of its historical development and current practice. The influence of the educational reform movement and the regular education initiative on special education consultation is discussed, and future directions for the discipline suggested.…

The article examines the efficacy of educational consultation through a review of research studies in the following categories: field-based survey research, outcome studies, and process investigations. It is suggested that future research maintain a broader-based ecological perspective which includes such factors as staffing patterns, cost…

Thirty-five state departments of education were surveyed regarding delivery systems, roles/responsibilities, competencies, and certification for special education teachers acting as consultants. Results revealed a need for improved policies and leadership to assist school districts in developing and improving consultation programs providing…