Deficits in question-asking are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Furthermore, their opportunities to self-initiate questions are often hindered by directive behavior of their conversation partners. This study assessed the effectiveness of staff training in pivotal response treatment (PRT) on staff member-created…

The purpose of this study is to identify the essential features of Tier 2 interventions conducted within multitier systems of behavior support in schools. A systematic literature search identified 12 empirical studies that were coded and scored according to a list of Tier 2 specific RE-AIM criteria, related to the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption,…

In "Remembering What's Important: Priorities of School Leadership," Charles A. Bonnici addresses several issues facing school leaders through strategies supported by real-life examples and anecdotes. The issues addressed include questions such as: (1) What is the most urgent issue faced by a new school leader?; (2) How can this leader address the…

Evaluation of a combined "hands-on" and videotape training package used to teach direct care staff in an Intermediate Care Facility to conduct daily activities for profoundly mentally retarded persons indicated staff performance improved after the training and was maintained at three-week follow-up. (Author/DB)

The author presents a five-stage model for staff development used in a survey of professors and practitioners. The survey found that there is a disparity between what professors and practitioners believe is practiced and what is actually occurring in staff development. (MD)

At a round-table discussion, five camp caretakers identified common camp maintenance problems. Snow loads, wooden floors, storage of lake equipment, removal of grass cuttings and leaves, local suppliers, vandalism and trespassing, swimming pools, assigning work, use of outside contractors, decisions to replace or repair, job satisfaction, and…

A model of ongoing consultation was effectively implemented in a community group home for eight adults with severe and profound mental retardation. Two consultants taught staff members to use a token reinforcement system, engage clients in a variety of activities, and improve staff interactions with clients. (Author/DB)

Staff development practices that successfully implemented long-term applications of cluster grouping in two districts are analyzed, compared, and reviewed. Parallel practices and differences are discussed concerning program beginning, implementation, and maintenance. Conclusions are drawn and six steps for use and consideration by others engaged…

Presents specific ideas on designing, planning, and staffing a training facility for industrial technicians. Facilities should be designed in relation to curriculum, traffic control, and safety. Trainer success is often based on both skills and attitudes. Presents case study at Commonwealth Edison; also reviews process by which various maintenance…

This article describes four ways experienced co-teachers, especially regular and special educators, can maintain mature co-teaching relationships. Celebrating accomplishments, re-evaluating team goals, sustaining equitable practices, and maintaining continuous improvement are suggested as specific strategies for keeping the co-teaching…

Active Support, a package of procedures which includes activity planning, support planning, and training on providing effective assistance, was evaluated in five community residences serving 19 adults with severe mental retardation. Findings indicated that the likelihood of a resident engaging in activity significantly increased following staff…

A management program was implemented to increase the training activities and decrease nonwork behavior of eight direct-care staff in a facility for individuals with mental retardation. Improvements were maintained during a 43-week period, staff acceptability measures were positive, and beneficial changes occurred in clients. (JDD)

Resulting from a 3 year project to develop competency based programs for camp personnel working with the physically handicapped, the four field guides task analyze the roles of the camp secretary, camp nurse, camp food services staff, and camp maintenance supervisor. All guides contain an introduction and information on general duties, job…

A structured coaching strategy was effectively used with three day-care teachers, resulting in (1) substantial increases in delivery of behavioral support of social interactions of children with developmental disabilities; and (2) marked increases in positive interactions of socially withdrawn children. Long-term maintenance effects were also…

This study evaluated procedures used to train 10 supervisors in a residential setting to provide feedback for maintaining direct-service staff members' teaching skills with people who have severe disabilities. A combination of classroom-based instruction, on-the-job observation, and feedback that targeted supervisors' feedback skills was found to…