Discusses the maturationist, behaviorist, and cognitive interactionist views of transitional programs. Research on transitional programs and possible effects of such programs on kindergarten and first grade classes is discussed. (BG)

An occupational therapy-based independent living skills program at a California high school was designed to help disabled adolescents assume adult roles. Based on occupational science principles, the program's themes include occupation and occupational role, environment, independence, and adaptation. (SK)

The support of home and parents is a major factor in the school-to-work transition of special needs students. Survey research describes parent expectations of these students as minimal. Suggestions are offered for enhancing support for parents and their special needs students. (Author/MSE)

A nationally representative sample of youths with disabilities who recently exited high school was studied to determine their level of participation in postsecondary educational programs. The results show that disabled individuals participate at only one-quarter the rate of their nondisabled counterparts. (Author/MLW)

An integrated work search and leisure search curriculum was developed at Portland State University to teach mildly handicapped secondary students how to improve their transition skills. Outcomes are documented in terms of employment, job search competence, and satisfaction with leisure activities. (TE)

Guidelines for helping special educators contribute to transition planning for students with disabilities include understanding the legislative mandate, identifying relevant persons and resources at the school district level, investigating alternative approaches to transition planning, promoting family participation, using various assessment…

A Monash University (Australia) program to enhance the chemistry and physics preparation of secondary school graduates entering engineering in higher education offers one-semester intensive courses. The first four years of the program have produced encouraging results. Coordination of practical work and theory is seen as crucial to learning. (MSE)

This article examines the history of transition policy and legislation, current postsecondary outcome experiences, and transition planning services to improve outcomes for youths with learning disabilities. The article concludes that the key catalyst of any transition program lies in thorough and ongoing assessment of individual needs, strengths,…

This study compared procedures in Scotland and Ontario (Canada) for planning for the transition to adulthood of young people with physical disabilities. In Scotland such planning is mandated, while in Canada such procedures are dependent on local initiatives. In both instances, transition was seen to be a prolonged phase. Case studies illustrate…

Describes the Transition-to-Kindergarten program in Brookline, Massachusetts, in which two children with asthma and potentially life-threatening food allergies were helped to stay healthy and fit into the classroom. (BB)

Discusses transitional situations of concurrent computer-based training (CBT) that occur in organizations, and provides instructional designers with adaptable checklists to use when communicating with managers and programmers about the tasks performed and the tools needed in designing and developing CBT. Tables present steps, applications,…

A field study demonstrated a process for determining the appropriate level of community-based consultative support for families, professionals, and paraprofessionals working to integrate children with autism. The resultant differentiated service model calls for an interministerial service plan to facilitate various transitions. (Author/JDD)

This article describes programing modifications and transition techniques for educators planning for the reentry of a child with a head injury. Discussion addresses: gathering information about the child; preparing school staff; preparing the student for the return; providing homebound instruction; modifying schedules to alleviate physical…

Twenty-four adults with mental retardation were assigned to a supported work program and were compared with 25 control subjects receiving conventional workshop services. Clients assigned to supportive work did significantly better in the competitive labor market than did clients in extended sheltered employment. (Author/JDD)

A survey of 29 federally funded agencies engaged in transition education Inter-Agency Agreements (IAAs) found that planning activities are important in forging IAAs, implementation of IAAs depends upon local initiatives, and collection of information about service overlap and service gaps was considered to be an important activity. (JDD)