This current response to a reprinted 1968 article by Ray Barsch (EC 602 662) focuses on legal aspects of learning disabilities, especially problems in implementing IDEA (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and continuing controversies concerning definition, evaluation, instructional intervention, and placement or service delivery…

Describes steps involved in the process of hiring academic librarians. Topics discussed include refining the job description; forming a search committee and determining appropriate administrative support; salary decisions; selection criteria for qualified candidates; conference placement activities; evaluating applicants, including dealing with…

Tennessee data were analyzed for four years before and five years after the funding formula for special education was changed from a "flat" rate to a "weighted" formula. The weighted formula was associated with a statistically significant decrease in less restrictive placements and a reliable increase in more restrictive…

Research effects on achievement of nongraded elementary school organization is reviewed. Nongraded organization can have a positive impact on student achievement if cross-age grouping is used to allow teachers to provide more direct instruction to students but not if it is used as a framework for individualized instruction. (SLD)

This article traces the origin and development of special educational opportunities offered to students who are exceptionally able in mathematics, focusing on the Study of Mathematically Precocious Youth at Johns Hopkins University and the Center for the Advancement of Academically Talented Youth. (Author/JDD)

Santa Fe Community College (Florida) has used computerized adaptive testing with students placed in developmental reading, writing, and mathematics courses. Computerized adaptive testing utilizes the capabilities of microcomputers to adapt examinations to the abilities of individual students, may be less threatening to students, is preferred by…

Reports on a survey conducted to determine whether two-year colleges are prepared to meet commerce/industrial needs for a more sophisticated and globally competitive workforce. Presents findings related to the internationalization of occupational curricula, short-term training and services, the characteristics of heavily involved colleges, and the…

Examines ramifications of special class placement on the self-concept of learning-disabled children. Results reveal a strong link between learning disabilities and low self-concept. Three kinds of effects of special class placement on self-concept and certain sex differences are indicated. (Author/BB)

Eighty-five persons with developmental disabilities who had been placed into independent housing and competitive employment 15 years previously were evaluated. Two primary groups emerged: 19% in and 59% not in mental retardation/developmental disability services. The two groups were compared on social and support networks, lifestyle, quality of…

Develops an overview of the issues surrounding the inclusion of special education students in regular classes, and reframes the debate as an issue of social justice that states that separate education of special education students is not only unequal but is also detrimental to the development of all students. (SLD)

Analyzed and validated revised versions of the 2000 Word Level and the University Word Level of Nation's Vocabulary Levels Test, which can be administered for course planning and placement in language programs. Japanese high school and university students (n=496) completed four forms of the 2000 Word Test, and 464 completed four forms of the…

Examines child and family risk factors and behavioral indexes of youths with emotional and behavioral disorders to determine critical factors that predicted the restrictiveness of their educational placements. Discusses findings in the context of system of care efforts to reform service system response to youth with special-education and…

Considers the computerization of an English-language placement test for delivery on the World Wide Web. Describes a pilot study to investigate potential bias against students who lack computer familiarity or have negative attitudes towards technology, and assesses the usefulness of the test as a placement instrument by comparing the accuracy of…

Discusses cases that reveal the impact of teacher expectations on the accuracy or inaccuracy of self-concepts of children with exceptionalities from minority-group backgrounds. Fifteen teacher beliefs that will benefit new and seasoned practitioners as they identify, assess, place, and instruct minority children are provided. (CR)

Lubbock (Texas) High School, a successful magnet and neighborhood school, discovered the benefits of flexible scheduling over 15 years ago. The unique schedule and other organizational structures have sustained a successful magnet program, created a diversity-enhancing culture, and revitalized a school near closure in 1978. (MLH)