The review examines evaluations of the efficacy of special education programs for mildly disabled children. The author suggests that serious methodological flaws make our present knowledge in this area very weak and proposes a methodology to address and overcome many of the limitations of previous research. (Author)

Five components were identified as crucial to the success of the mainstreamed peer tutoring program (selection, training, matching, supervision, and communication with/support for the regular classroom teacher). Data provided support for the conclusion that the on task behavior of tutees improved significantly as a result of the program. (SB)