Comparison of 502 former and 148 active participants in a prevocational intervention for at-risk students and 157 at-risk nonparticipants found (1) comparable dropout rates, self-concept scores, and reading and math achievement; (2) decline in participants' grades and attendance after the program; and (3) higher degrees of internality in cognitive…

The social participation patterns of 28 young children with visual impairments (some with additional disabilities) during free-play periods was compared across specialized and integrated settings. Although no significant differences were found between settings, there were significant differences between children with and without additional…

Discusses the unique problems of accommodating the needs of mildly handicapped students in rural schools and the importance of collegial support in overcoming these problems. Describes peer collaboration, a method of facilitating collegial support and mutual problem solving. Summarizes research evaluating the effectiveness of peer collaboration.…

Systematic observations in 46 third- or fourth-grade classrooms found little differentiation in instructional and curricular practices, grouping arrangements, and verbal interactions for gifted and talented students in regular classrooms. Across 5 subject areas and 92 observation days, the observed students experienced no instructional or…

This article considers the legacy of Samuel Gridley Howe and others such as Francis Campbell and Mary Caroline Greene who were committed to the education of individuals with blindness. The paper examines controversies over mainstreaming versus residential schooling and the need for emphasis on developing independence in individuals with blindness.…

Presents two case studies of learning disorders, one involving Attention Deficit Disorder and the second involving delayed speech problems. Relates students' progress to the availability and provision of needed services. Lists resources for additional information. (PAA)

An awareness-raising program to enhance secondary students' appreciation and understanding of common disabilities is described. In addition to guest speakers, selected regular education students simulated vision, speech, cognitive, hearing and mobility impairments. Equipment used, procedures, student responses, and reactions from the student body…

The article describes the Finnish special education system which provides instructional modifications ranging from remedial education to individual instruction at home, with most students receiving part-time special education by resource room teachers. The last decade has seen emphasis on individual and group integration and individual special…

Nine commonly occurring activities were identified in mainstreamed kindergarten and first grade classrooms, the necessary skills for participation were analyzed, and a curriculum was developed. Evaluation of the curriculum showed that 15 handicapped preschool children learned the necessary skills, even when the instructions, environment, and task…

Social status of learning-disabled (LD) elementary students served by the Integrated Classroom Model was compared to that of LD elementary students in a regular class with resource room support. Results suggest that, although both groups had lower social status than nondisabled peers, ICM students blended into the classroom better. (Author/PB)

Surveys of preschool personnel and teachers of early childhood educators found that mainstreaming of children with disabilities in preschools increased from 1985-90; benefits are widely recognized; that activities are easily adapted for such children; and primary barriers to successful mainstreaming are inadequate training, high student-staff…

Describes the movement to integrate students with special needs into the regular classroom, explaining what inclusive education is and is not, how to make it work, why it sometimes fails, and how teachers feel about it. A checklist to help schools get ready for inclusion is included. (SM)

Assessed parents' attitudes toward integration or mainstreaming of children with developmental disabilities. Subjects had preschool children with and without disabilities enrolled in integrated or self-contained classrooms. Found that, by the end of school year, parents whose children had participated in integrated programs held more positive…

The executive director of the Council for Exceptional Children discusses the importance of collaborative action to achieve common goals, applies these principles to special education, and describes a collaborative effort with nine other national associations to identify and promote good practice principles for the planning and operation of…

Information about children who stutter is provided, including the characteristics of stutterers and techniques that preschool and elementary teachers can use in the classroom to help these students. Suggestions focus on ways to provide a good speech model, improve the child's self-esteem, and create a good speech environment. (DB)