Parents (N=41) of special education students and parents (N=93) of general education students whose children were placed in integrated elementary classrooms were surveyed. Both groups of parents were equally satisfied with the integrated option, and parents' satisfaction levels either held constant or improved after several months with the…

This column presents a discussion of the philosophy and practice of inclusion of students with disabilities and a review of five books and articles on inclusive schools; and an annotated bibliography of nine journal articles and reports on gifted students and educational reform. (JDD)

Using an ecological systems conceptual framework proposed by Bronfenbrenner, research on the inclusion of preschool children with disabilities in programs with typically developing children was reviewed. Drawing mainly from studies conducted in the United States, research on child characteristics (biosystem), classroom practices (microsystem),…

This special issue examines inclusive education, the movement to include children with disabilities in regular classrooms, focusing on the situation in New Jersey. The issue begins with an editorial by Ethan B. Ellis titled "Inclusive Education: Time To Pay Up." In "The Terms of the Debate," Marc Mercer notes that inclusive…

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;…

A study examined the effectiveness of coworker instruction, a natural support strategy, in improving the integration of four adolescents with disabilities transitioning into a competitive-employment setting. Results indicated the intervention strategy increased the social integration of the students with disabilities. (Author/CR)

Reviews the impact of eugenics on people with disabilities and the danger that they will be further devalued in a world of increasing genetic manipulation. Margaret Mead's concept of providing opportunities for all people to learn how to participate wholly in society and the need for an ethical revolution are discussed. (CR)

This article uses a sociocultural framework to propose an expanded view of least restrictive environment. It focuses on the individual child in interaction with the social organization of specific activity settings rather than the physical location (regular or special education classroom), which can be either facilitating or restrictive in either…

This speech calls for an end to prolonged debate about integration of preschool children in early intervention programs, discusses what is known from research on integration, describes quality indicators of early intervention programs, and makes suggestions for institutionalizing quality early intervention services. (JDD)

A study of co-worker involvement among 264 supported employees found that, of 7 types of involvement, "associating" occurred most often, followed by "evaluating" and "training." Employees in mobile work crews experienced less co-worker involvement than those employed in clustered or individual placements, and more…

Reviews research on social integration of special needs children into regular preschool programs. Techniques used to facilitate integration are reassessed. Suggestions for teacher promotion of social integration are provided. (RJC)

The case study of an integrated preschool classroom with six disabled children and six nondisabled peers found that structural changes in the environment of the classroom were essential for the development of positive social interactions among the children. (Author/JDD)

The article describes the whole school approach to special education provision in British primary schools. Schools are encouraged to develop a policy document covering such aspects as general aims, staff roles, assessment and record keeping, curriculum, working with parents, staff development, and policy review. (DB)

A study examined the attitudes of 88 girls (ages 10-12) without disabilities, parents, and coaches toward the inclusion of a child with a disability in a regular fast-pitch softball league. Players and parents had a favorable attitude toward inclusion and modifying game rules. Coaches were undecided about inclusion and rule modifications.…

Challenges to supported employment programs for people with disabilities include conversion of day programs to integrated work options, expansion of program capacity, the need to ensure consumer choice and self-determination, and the achievement of meaningful employment outcomes. Specific recommendations are offered for each challenge. (Author/DB)