The author suggests that the systems approach used in industrial management can help in the planning of special centers for handicaped students in regular schools. Special centers are considered in terms of their growth, benefits, and as a system development. (SB)

Among procedural considerations in planning a peer tutoring program are tutor and tutee selection (examining age, sex, socioeconimic, cultural, and racial factors); tutor training; and program monitoring. Ethical considerations include stigmatization of the tutee. Future research issues should focus on long term effects and optimal tutor-tutee…

Literature on peer tutors and peer helpers with handicapped and nonhandicapped students is reviewed and a model is proposed for the establishment and supervision of peer helpers. Steps include identification of needs; selection of helpers; preparation of helpers; the process of helping, recording, supervision, and evaluation. (Author)

The authors suggest that the Rules and Regulations of P.L. 94-142 (the Education for All Handicapped Children Act) for the development and implementation of child identification systems present severe policy problems for state planners. (Author/CL)

The authors discuss a sequential vocational rehabilitation procedure (the Crux Model) for using evaluation data to determine appropriate vocational hypotheses and for involving the handicapped client in the rehabilitation planning process. (CL)

This article describes the development of statewide system change in positive behavior support being implemented by the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs in collaboration with the University of South Carolina. Key areas discussed include the impetus for change, the development process, plan components, capacity building,…

This review defines supported employment, presents a rationale for it, describes four types of placement models, outlines supported employment program components, and analyzes effectiveness and populations served. The contributions of applied behavior analysis to supported employment are examined. (JDD)

An ecological survey is used to collect information about a wide range of variables that can influence a student's problem behavior. The survey enables teachers and parents to identify the settings and conditions in which behaviors are displayed, in order to develop an appropriate behavior change program. (JDD)

The article presents a vocational assessment design tied directly to the provision of vocational support for disabled students in that support activities are based on assessment outcomes. The roles of assessment and support personnel are delineated within this collaborative approach. (Author/DB)

This paper discusses the development of an overall network of respite care services in the Federal Republic of Germany, the need for respite care services, efforts of a national organization called Lebenshilfe, evolution of the concept of respite care, and future tasks. (Author/JDD)

"The Complete Guide to Service Learning" is the go-to resource in the fast-growing field of service learning. It is an award-winning treasury of service activities, community service project ideas, quotes, reflections, and resources that can help teachers and youth workers engage young hearts and minds in reaching out and giving back. Author, and…

This paper illustrates the positivistic nature of person-centered planning (PCP) that is evident in the planning methods employed, the way that individuals with disabilities are described, and in portrayal of the outcomes of PCP. However, a confluence of factors can lead to manifestation of excessive positivism that does not serve PCP…

Background: The goal of this study was to adapt a narrative reminiscence program for the special needs of ageing people with mild/moderate intellectual disabilities. Research has shown that stimulating reminiscence in the elderly can be a meaningful activity, and holds promise for positive effects on well-being. Method: In the first stage (10…

The passage of Public Law 94-142 (Education for All Handicapped Children Act) in 1975 had a great impact on the role of school psychologists. One of the controversial requirements of Public Law 94-142 alluded to the involvement of school psychologists in Individualized Education Program (IEP) development. This study was undertaken to obtain…

This topical newsletter focuses on ways to convert segregated day programs for people with disabilities into community integrated employment programs. Individual sections cover: common "conversion" myths and appropriate responses; a national status report on conversion; Florida's innovative use of the Medicaid waiver to fund conversion;…