This article presents a matrix model to train individuals with severe handicaps to use language skills in spontaneous language situations. The model takes into account listener preparatory behaviors and contextual variables. The model suggests procedures for efficient training for generalization. (DB)

The effectiveness of a mand-model plus correction procedure in developing requesting behavior by two severely or moderately retarded adults was assessed in two experiments. Both subjects acquired the behavior and maintained it (with reduced fluency) at two-month followup. (Author/DB)

Argues that a series of video programs based on Borg's minicourse model could help to resolve some of the problems related to the training of speech therapists. A description of one specific video course is presented along with reports on its evaluation. Eleven references are listed. (Author/LLS)

Four parents were trained to use enhanced milieu teaching with their preschool children with developmental delays. The parents learned to use the strategies in the clinic and generalized them to the home. Positive effects were observed on children's spontaneous communication and target use, and on parent and child affect. (Author/DB)

The Harpersbury Hospital School in Hertfordshire, England, developed a curriculum of "mothering," or intensive, structured interaction teaching, to promote development of language, cognition, and sociability in pupils with severe and complex learning difficulties. The process approach is based on the critical learning that infants…

Language intervention approaches were built into a residential environment for 13 women with severe mental retardation. Two residents were assigned to an intensive signing program, two to an "Intro-talker and signing" group, and the remaining residents to various comparison-intervention and comparison groups. Increases in positive communicative…

Development and dissemination of a multimedia inservice education package on language development for those working with mentally handicapped children are described. The package was used to train teachers, nurses, psychologists, and other social service personnel in a variety of settings. Three elements critical for the success of this package are…

This article addresses training of hearing-impaired children who have received cochlear implants from a "hearing as a second language" point of view. It compares cochlear implants to hearing aids. A project involving 7 children, ages 5 to 12, is detailed, noting efforts to provide a rich auditory environment and encouraging both manual and oral…

This paper describes the development and use of language training procedures, referred to as cues-pause-point procedures, that rely on behavioral principles and simple and natural teaching procedures and that are exhibited in many normal parent-child or teacher-student verbal interactions. The procedures have been effective in teaching severely…

A two week teacher training institute for Native American bilingual/bicultural education was held in the summer of 1978 at Brockport State University of New York. Educational Programs for bilingual and bicultural learning environments for Native American students had been hampered by insufficient teachers and teacher trainers and the use of…