This qualitative report examines the role of the paraprofessional. The 2004 reauthorization of IDEA, explains that paraprofessionals who are appropriately trained and supervised (in accordance with state law, regulation, or written policy) are recognized as personnel who may assist in the provision of special education and related services to…

This TECH POINTS training manual and guide are intended to assist vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies with staff training on the integration of rehabilitation technology services into the VR process. The TECH POINTS approach helps determine when and how to use rehabilitation technology with individual clients. The training manual covers: how…

This study attempted to identify variables supportive of inclusive programming for children with disabilities from the teacher's perspective. Structured interviews with 10 teachers at two pilot elementary schools in Indiana addressed issues concerning type and frequency of staff development, site visits to inclusive schools, previous experience…

This paper discusses the production of videotape recordings illustrating developmental milestones of early childhood to serve as a reference point in working with parents or staff caring for young children who have disabilities. Procedures for making a video presentation include the following steps: select a topic (such as motor development,…

The study surveyed local education agencies in Minnesota concerning staff development needs for personnel serving handicapped children. Questionnaires were developed for direct service providers as well as for program administrators. Data provided information on characteristics of direct service personnel (including position type, licensing, and…

The paper outlines a procedure of providing staff development designed to meet the needs of all educational personnel, including teachers, support personnel, administrators, and parents. The role of the Central Ohio Instructional Resource Center in staff development is examined, followed by a discussion of needs assessment methods (such as content…

The report presents findings of the second and third year of a study of the Less Restrictive Placement Personnel Training (LRP) program, designed to develop materials and training to increase the number of students mainstreamed into general education. In the final 2 years of the 3-year program, LRP expanded to include all special education regions…

This resource guide is designed to assist educational personnel to expand and increase the effectiveness of their vocational guidance and counseling programs for the handicapped. The guide includes a combination of articles, books, research reports, audiovisual materials, staff training materials, organizations, and directory lists. The references…

The publication describes 33 Wisconsin special educational needs (SEN) programs and activities during 1977-78. The bulk of the report consists of self evaluation findings submitted by each project director. Each report is concerned with five areas: instructional program, staff development, parent education/involvement, local advisory program…

The guide lists behaviors and skills needed by persons who work as teachers with very young handicapped children and their families. It is explained that ratings may be completed by self, peer, or supervisor. Skills are listed in 11 areas: referral, intake, and screening; determining child placement; interdisciplinary assessment; interdisciplinary…

Issues arising from a symposium on microcomputer applications for young handicapped children concerned identification of realistic applications, instructional management, and need for research on effects of technology use. Recommendations in the area of curriculum, software, management, and personnel preparation were made and future directions…

This brief paper uses a question-and-answer format to summarize requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 related to personnel training. Topics address the purpose of the ADA; personnel within an organization who should receive training on the ADA; information on the ADA that these personnel should have; starting a training…

This report provides an overview of the federally funded State Improvement Grants (SIGs). Information was obtained from the 17 individual state profiles compiled for the Regional Resource Center Network SIG Report. Results of the analysis found: (1) 18 states were awarded SIGs in 1999 and the average SIG award was $1,002,949; (2) recruitment and…

A survey of all 50 states and the District of Columbia found that more than half the states utilized a Higher Education Consortium to facilitate personnel development and capacity building in the early intervention disciplines. Information about the membership, mission, and meeting structure is provided as well as possible explanations for why…

Reference services for disabled students include traditional directional and informational assistance as well as physical assistance. Providing this service takes planning, commitment, and funding on the part of librarians and library administration. A staff development program should be offered to increase awareness of disabled users' needs. (17…