Twelve papers address issues of attitudes towards handicapped persons. The authors were invited to summarize and critically evaluate the literature in their area of expertise, including their own research. Contributions touch on measurement and methodological issues as well as other topics. The following papers are included: "Attitudes and…

This brief paper reviews the literature on entrepreneurship among people with disabilities. It notes that entrepreneurship by individuals with disabilities is often a consequence of disability discrimination in the workforce and provides both benefits and disadvantages such as independence and freedom from access-related obstacles (benefits) and…

The report examines, from a cognitive developmental view, research on the teachable moment or critical learning period in handicapped infants. The author explains that developmental gaps are produced by a mismatch between the infant's readiness and opportunity to learn. Characteristics and educational implications of specific handicapping…

This column presents a discussion of the philosophy and practice of inclusion of students with disabilities and a review of five books and articles on inclusive schools; and an annotated bibliography of nine journal articles and reports on gifted students and educational reform. (JDD)

This brief overview discusses the rationale for measuring teachers' attitudes toward the mainstreaming of handicapped students into regular classrooms, as well as research findings on teacher attitudes. Two attitude tests, Berryman and Berryman's Attitudes Toward Mainstreaming Scale and Hall's Stages of Concern Questionnaire, are also briefly…

This digest analyzes the definitions of disability in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It notes that, in order to be eligible for special education services under the act, the child must meet two criteria: (1) he/she must have one or more of the specific disabilities listed in the act, and (2)he/she must require special…

This brief paper summarizes what is known about sensory integration and sensory integration dysfunction (DSI). It outlines evaluation of DSI, treatment approaches, and implications for parents and teachers, including compensatory strategies for minimizing the impact of DSI on a child's life. Review of origins of sensory integration theory in the…

An examination of attitudinal investigations which will be helpful and practical for both researchers and practitioners interested in attitudinal research dealing with handicapped students is provided. The measurement techniques which have been used to study professional, peer and parent attitudes are the primary focus of address with fairly brief…

The report examines a variety of computerized aids and devices for individuals with visual, communication, or other disabilities, as well as ways computers may be used in the education and employment of handicapped individuals. Considered in the section on visual and hearing aids are talking meters, braille terminals, devices for reading standard…

Intended for use with students preparing for careers in school psychology, the text assumes little familiarity with special education and focuses on those aspects of special education of greatest relevance for the assessment process. The book is divided into two major parts: Part I, "General Considerations," includes a brief description of the…

The digest addresses, in question-and-answer format, ways to promote peer acceptance of handicapped students. Topics covered include the effects of first impressions on nonhandicapped students and the impact of physical proximity, and the nature of interdependence among students' learning goals and rewards as structured by the teacher. A…

This annotated bibliography lists 19 publications to help educators more effectively include students with disabilities in general education classrooms. The publications, including books, journal articles, videotapes, and reports, are dated from 1993 through 1999, and most are available through the ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center)…

A guide is designed for elementary school teachers with handicapped students in their classrooms. Seven sections comprise the document. Section I discusses the implications of mainstreaming for classroom teachers. Discussed are 1) the physical and social isolation of the handicapped students in the 1960s; 2) the impact of Public Law 94-142 which…

The digest answers basic questions about using microcomputers for professional development in special education. Use of the microcomputer as a self-contained unit is described and the types of information available on diskette from the ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources are considered. The microcomputer's application in networking is…

The Competency Development Scales (CDS) for teachers of exceptional children is described as an instrument to evaluate teacher skills and aid in subsequent planning of appropriate inservice training. The CDS consists of five major skill areas: general competence (such interpersonal skills as enthusiasm, responsibility, patience, and…