This "ERIC Digest" discusses the components of an effective educational program for students who are gifted. The paper defines the term "program" and distinguishes between programs and provisions. Eight major components of an effective program are noted: needs assessment, definition of population, identification procedures,…

No matter where gifted and talented students obtain their education, they need an appropriately differentiated curriculum designed to address their individual characteristics, needs, abilities, and interests. A program that builds on these characteristics may be viewed as qualitatively (rather than quantitatively) different from the basic…

This bibliography provides brief annotations of 12 journal articles, project reports, and books on programs for dropout pregnant and parenting adolescents. Most of the documents cited describe particular programs in American cities. (KH)

The digest briefly summarizes the characteristics and current trends in special education programing for exceptional children. Exceptional children are described as having physical, mental, or behavioral handicaps and ranging in age from birth to 21. Requirements of basic federal legislation (The Education for All Handicapped Children Act) and…

This digest discusses research that documents the benefits of keeping gifted students together, the advantages and disadvantages of cluster grouping, and how to implement cluster grouping strategies. It argues that cluster grouping allows educators to come much closer to providing better educational services for groups of students with similar…

The special instructional needs of limited English proficient (LEP) students in special education programs are discussed. The degree of the student's disability (mild, moderate, or severe) directs both the program focus and the need for specialized knowledge to deliver appropriate instruction. A responsive English as a second language (ESL)…

A comprehensive delivery system offers several advantages in career counseling programs serving adult clients. Systematic delivery is advantageous because of its developmental emphasis, effective use of resources, amenability to change, provisions for built-in ongoing evaluation, and focus on process and product. A comprehensive adult career…

Social and demographic changes in American society have given rise to an abundance of educational literature about the role of schools. Schools must provide both basic and advanced academic preparation, but should they also compensate for and assume some of the roles of the family? This document identifies current trends and issues in education by…

Issues pertinent to prenatal drug-affected students are discussed in this ERIC Digest. The rising number of drug-exposed children approaching school age presents a challenge to school personnel in meeting their special needs. Topics covered are: (1) seriousness of the problem; (2) problems unique to drug-affected children; (3) creation of a…

Intended to encourage both migrant and non-migrant educators to explore the possibilities of adopting and/or adapting the cited programs or appropriate components into their own units, this volume updates the 1974 description of some of the many programs that have proven effective in serving migrant students. Chapter I summarizes seven programs…

Intended as a general guide for adult educators interested in developing community educational programs for handicapped adults, this monograph gives an overview of facts, problems, and programs peculiar to each of four handicapped populations: the physically handicapped, blind, deaf, and mentally retarded. Following an introduction that defines…

A review of relevant available literature divides the functions of rural principals into six categories (instruction/curriculum leadership, personnel guidance, school/community relations, administrative responsibilities, evaluation, professional improvement) and provides suggestions on helpful material for each. Recent research on principals and…