Effectiveness of a six-week spelling program implemented with seven learning-disabled sixth and seventh grade boys was assessed. Compared with controls, the experimental group demonstrated superior performance in the learning and retention of unpredictably spelled words. No difference between groups was found for words dictated in paragraphs. (JW)

A meta-analysis of 19 studies using handicapped students as tutors of other students indicated that: (1) tutoring programs were generally effective; (2) tutees generally gained more than tutors; and (3) tutor and tutee gains on self-concept and sociometric ratings were small, while gains on attitude measures were larger. (Author/DB)

The author reports on a collaborative effort among three state agencies that is currently giving 3,000 California youth who are disabled a chance to prove themselves in private sector job placements. Discusses program administration, funding, computerized recordkeeping, entrance requirements, and plans for the future. (CT)

Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies of adolescent males from public schools, juvenile courts, and correctional facilities confirmed the school failure theory, the susceptibility theory, and the differential treatment theory--theories positing a causal relationship between learning disability and juvenile delinquency. Remedial instruction…

An alternating-treatments design was used to investigate the relative efficacy of three error-correction procedures on the oral reading of four learning disabled middle school students. Results indicated that a drill procedure was more effective and efficient than a word-supply procedure and a phonic-drill rehearsal strategy. (Author)

The effectiveness of supplementary home tutoring with minimal professional guidance of 64 learning disabled, emotionally disturbed, or educable mentally retarded primary grade students was evaluated. Results indicated that after two weeks children whose parents had received the tutoring materials scored significantly higher on a word recognition…

Providing early intervention services for disabled children is a relatively new endeavor for school psychologists. Most school psychologists have not received formal training--yet are providing evaluation and intervention services to preschool children. Major efficacy issues and research data on early intervention for young disabled children are…

A survey of 29 graduates of a learning disabilities secondary program revealed that 18 were employed, with semiskilled or unskilled occupations predominating. Positive of the program (including that 24 resultsare either former students working or being trained) are noted as well as inadequacies (such as an underrepresentation in postsecondary…

Two studies document benefits of implementing CBM (curriculum-based measurement) in both special and regular education settings. In Study 1 CBM is demonstrated to be a valid and reliable measurement system that aids teacher decisions regarding student placement, progress, and intervention effectiveness in an elementary school. Study II outlines…

Five adolescents with moderate to severe mental retardation, including one with hearing impairments and blindness, were taught 12 associated work skills through an approach featuring reinforcement for desirable behavior and negative consequences and cueing for undesirable behavior. (CL)

The spread effect (the impact on those other than the initial participants) of inservice teacher education regarding mainstreaming is described in terms of increased awareness of handicapping conditions on the part of other staff and students in middle and elementary settings. (CL)

Describes the Elderly Support Project designed to teach families better home care of the mentally and physically impaired elderly. Findings supported the procedures as valuable for promoting continuing home care, better mental status, and improved behavior of elderly clients by offering families alternative positive responses. (Author/JAC)

The study was designed to increase the amount of time 37 severely handicapped students living in a residential facility engaged in age-approprite and functional activities. Results showed that after a supervision program was implemented, the students' participation in activities increases and that these increases maintained for a 5-month period.…

Noting that there has been steady growth since 1986 in the number of children and families served in early intervention programs for infants/toddlers with disabilities, this report excerpts an article examining the current status of early intervention and outlines five issues believed to be critical in the coming decade. These issues are: (1)…

The report evaluates a special initiative of the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) and the Department of Education of Northern Ireland (DENI) in 1996-1997 and 1998-1999 to encourage institutions to develop high quality provisions for students with disabilities and to increase the participation in higher education of students…