This article summarizes suggestions in a review and synthesis publication developed by Dr. Kenneth Little for the ERIC Clearinghouse on Vocational and Technical Education at The Ohio State University. (GB)

Substitution of the Slosson for the Benet or Wechsler with this group appears unwarranted. While SIT seems valid as brief screening instrument for class placement of primary-age mentally retarded children, it does not appear to be an adequate replacement instrument. (CJ)

Examines the limitations of standardized test scores as predictors of success in college writing courses. Supports the selective use of writing samples as an additional placement tool. (MM)

The process of identification of hearing loss in preschool children, including infant screening techniques, audiological testing methods, and other tests used to determine the kind and degree of hearing loss, are discussed. Appropriate habilitation and educational placement is also discussed, including hearing aid selection and parent…

The paper reviews the history of education for visually handicapped students in the twentieth century. Noted are the establishment of residential schools for the blind, gradual integration into public school classes, controversies over braille, the appearance of "talking books," and beginning efforts in orientation and mobility. (CL)

The implicit responsibility of colleges and universities to use tests to match the capabilities of the diversity of students with the requirements of programs of study is examined. Test uses in admissions and counseling are shown to be an important means of predicting success. (Author/CM)

The need to face the fact that minority groups are particularly vulnerable to testing, or perceive themselves to be, is argued. It is suggested that tests be used--along with other information--for student placement, advisement, and counseling. A program to improve test-taking skills is briefly described. (Author/CM)

Measured interclinician agreement among 24 school psychologists who assessed a simulated learning disability case. Agreement was found to be moderately high for diagnosis and somewhat less for prescriptions. Little interpretational bias was shown. However the simulated lower-class Black child was judged ineligible for services more often.…

The study validating the ability of the Test of Standard Written English with junior and master's level students was replicated with one-year cumulative grade point average serving as the criterion variable. Confirmed was the finding that scores, placement, and success in English courses were predictive of the academic success of such students.…

No main effects of special class placement were observed in 43 gifted students (grades six through eight) compared to 38 gifted students in regular classes in terms of cognitive processes, quality of school life, intellectual achievement, self concept, and activity. (CL)

The article examines problems concerning special education and ethnic minority group children and reviews approaches to meeting the needs of these children. (DB)

The trend to include mildly mentally retarded, emotionally disturbed (behavior disordered), and learning disabled children in the same generic category and in the same school programs is increasing. The author believes that the noncategorical trend in special education can endanger the appropriate education of many children. (Author)

Delineates three factors influencing the effectiveness of student placement programs: assessment data utilized, the academic system in which the student is placed, and the institution's commitment to evaluating the placement process. Reviews the procedures, statistical results, and findings of a Delhi College study of the English department…

Four papers focus on school programs for gifted and talented students. (CL)

Stresses that the use of standardized test results as a means for making any important decision about children's schooling should be opposed by teachers and parents. An alternative to standardized testing is proposed. (Author/DB)