This report illustrates how four high-performing systems--British Columbia (Canada), Hong Kong, Shanghai (China) and Singapore--developed their teacher professional learning. The report and accompanying materials are designed as a resource for teachers, school leaders and policymakers wanting to improve teacher professional learning in their…

The article critiques some of the flaws of mainstreaming, such as grade-level curriculum demands, reporting systems, standardized tests, teacher training, and the individualization of instruction. (Author/SBH)

The guide provides an overview of Massachusetts' programs for gifted and talented students with information on resources for program development. The first section provides a rationale for the education of gifted and talented students. Section II presents summaries of nine statewide programs, highlighting goals, identification methods, curriculum,…

This position statement of the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities identifies factors necessary for effective educational services for students with learning disabilities in general education classrooms; problems related to providing these services; and recommendations for actions required at the state, school district, and school…

Oakland School, near Charlottesville, Virginia, is a boarding and day school for children (ages 8-17) with learning disabilities and other academic problems. This paper describes the school's history, philosophy, academic calendar, student characteristics, teaching staff, curriculum, residential program, and additional services. (JDD)

This paper reviews Lev Vygotsky's theories concerning optimizing of potential through assistance, support, or instruction. The paper notes that there is a "zone of proximal development" or a band around intelligence quotient (IQ) scores reflecting one's true potential. IQ tests are generally well-standardized and "static,"…

The monograph describes the application of flexible pacing as a means of meeting the educational needs of gifted students in schools throughout the country. Flexible pacing is defined as placing students at an appropriate instructional level and allowing them to move forward in the curriculum as they master content and skills. Flexible pacing is…

The paper describes a process for planning, implementing, servicing, and revising handicapped children's individualized education programs (IEPs). The procedure is based on a developmental approach with emphasis on systematic instruction and methodical planning of long-term objectives. Sample record sheets suggest a format for detailing strengths…

The development of programming for the gifted in Lincolnshire (England) is traced. A collaborative approach to teaching the gifted is discussed, and current objectives of the Gifted and Able Pupils Support Service are listed. Organizational strategies to enhance services to the gifted are described. (CR)

This paper reviews the historical development of special education for gifted students in Taiwan; provides an overview of three chronological stages in the development of programming; describes educational opportunities and problems; and proposes recommendations for program development. (JDD)

The article discusses conceptual principles which underpin development of consultation-based programing for students with mild disabilities, proposes informal standards for ecological evaluation of specific formats, and identifies factors (such as administrative support and participatory planning and decision making) that maximize the potential…

This article describes three field-tested approaches to planning educational programs in inclusive settings for students who are deaf-blind, making decisions about support services, and developing lesson accommodations to include the students in typical class activities. (Author)

This paper traces the three stages of development of gifted programming in Taiwan, services that are now available in gifted education, and continuing challenges in gifted education. Critical events that shaped gifted education during 1973-79, 1980-81, and 1982-89 are described, including gifted programming for elementary students, junior high…

The authors describe the development and use of a structured, data base approach to developing individual education programs for special education students. The components of the "Data-Based Program Modification" (DBPM) approach are described to include five decision areas: problem selection; program selection (least restrictive yet most…

The article traces the steps that St. Mary's School for the Deaf in Buffalo, New York, followed in the implementation of their Total Communication program. (Author)