In light of the large and growing numbers of "low functioning deaf" adults who read at very low levels, this article reviews research related to transition for adolescents with disabilities, especially those who are deaf or hard of hearing. It argues for a greater emphasis on vocational and independent living skills in transition programs.…

For two Arizona schools with widely diverse ethnic makeup and socioeconomic backgrounds, the arts became a medium for defusing the potential for conflict. During spring 1995, sixth graders from both schools participated in "New Beginnings," a collaborative poetry and visual arts project. Through their interactions, the children created a…

A study examined whether Talking Mats, a light-technology augmentative framework, could be used successfully with 12 young adults with a learning and communication disability. Participants were able to indicate likes and dislikes and express views about the choices available to them. Some expressed opinions not previously known to their carers.…

A study of 69 students with deafness found the following factors facilitated transition from education to adult life and employment: student participation in Individualized Education Program meetings; family involvement in the transition process; transition planning in middle school; and cultural sensitivity in transition planning. Transition…

Based upon recent trends among college students with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, an alternative model of assessment that transcends test-centered approaches is proposed. Differential diagnosis and comorbidity, medication management, and common maladaptive behavior patterns needing assessment, treatment, and prevention are discussed,…

This article describes an Australian project that brought together educators, parents, and students to identify skills that young people with severe/profound or multiple learning difficulties need to gain before leaving schools. Results were fed back to schools to support the process of curricular review. The four-stage process of achieving…

A study investigated two cohorts ((n=16) and (n=15)) of graduates (1993-99) from a state residential school for individuals with visual impairments in the areas of employment, living arrangements and finances, postsecondary education, leisure activities, and usefulness of high school experiences. More Cohort 2 participants were working full time…

This review of the 1989 Student Initiated Research and Field Initiated Research transition proposals considers the practical value of federally funded transition research. Proposals are analyzed by such criteria as importance, technical soundness, personnel, impact, and budget. Of a total of 54 proposals competitively approved, 5 dealt with…

Reviews the literature on the efforts of school-college collaboration to increase the number of minority group students who enter and graduate from college. Concludes that these relationships have been largely self-serving, benefiting school and college personnel much more than the targeted disadvantaged students. (FMW)

This article discusses a model transition program and curriculum, ChoiceMaker, which focuses on helping secondary students with disabilities learn those self-determination skills characteristic of successful individuals. The curriculum is organized around 37 self-determination concepts grouped into 7 areas. Student participation in the…

This position statement reviews the history of the transition concept; defines it; identifies components of transition planning; and considers issues important in the delivery of transition services, including a focus on student preferences, inclusion of the student with disabilities within regular school programs, and provision of community-based…

Hispanic Americans face numerous barriers to educational opportunities, particularly in higher education. Cooperation and integration of services and interventions at various life stages and levels of education bridge the gap between the skills of many secondary school graduates and those needed to succeed in college. Such collaborative programs,…

Describes key elements for the successful transition of adolescents with learning disabilities to postsecondary education, focusing on intervention activities for high school counselors. The significance of career counseling and transition programs is demonstrated using a case illustration of how a learning-disabled student made a successful…

This article presents issues for consideration by planning teams making transition decisions for students with traumatic brain injuries. Factors in selecting a postsecondary setting are outlined, such as physical accessibility, living arrangements, academic programs and support services, social and personal support systems, and career/vocational…

Research on employment, residential, and social outcomes of youth with disabilities transitioning from school to adult activities is reviewed, finding that young adults with disabilities become less integrated into employment, independent living, and community activities as they age. Variables that may enhance community integration outcomes are…