Two studies examined the relationship between classroom crowding and the behavior of handicapped students in a total of 74 special classes. Both studies found the frequency of disruptive or aggressive behavior higher under the crowded conditions. (Author/DB)

Factors in the physical arrangement of special education classrooms that may lead to greater instructional control and structure include teacher proximity and view, separation of space, and reduction of extraneous stimuli. The issue of making classrooms more relaxed and home-like versus structuring them like regular classes to prepare students for…

Argues that regular class placement is inappropriate for the special student because (l) regular classes are too competitive; (2) rejection by other students may occur; and (3) the regular class teacher lacks the necessary special training and support. Suggests upgrading special classes and seeking other methods of integrating students. (SJL)

While socialization is a worthwhile outcome of mainstreaming, it is not sufficient in itself to merit placing a mildly handicapped student in a regular classroom; primary attention in mainstreaming decisions must be given to the instructional setting, the learners, and instructional conditions. (Part of a theme issue on mainstreaming.) (Author/SJL)

Observations of teaching behaviors of 40 teachers in categorical special education classrooms (educable mentally retarded, learning disabled, emotionally handicapped) revealed no differences in the extent to which teachers of different types of students demonstrated six of seven teaching behaviors defined as effective. Questions concerning the…

This document presents the texts of 11 major presentations and conference highlights from a February 2001 conference on the social, academic, and behavioral needs of students with challenging behavior in inclusive and alternative settings as required under the 1997 amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The presentations…

Special education teachers (n=108) were assessed to determine whether standards for acceptable student behavior differed as a function of either placement or instructional level of schooling. Differences were found only at the elementary level, where teachers in less restrictive placements (such as resource rooms) expressed more rigorous…

This study compared self-contained and regular classrooms for the quantity and quality of instruction provided to students classified as emotionally disturbed, learning disabled, and educable mentally retarded. The study compared 22 effectiveness indicators within 6 modifiable dimensions of instructional variables: (1) questioning style, (2)…