Use of the whole language theory can improve the reading and writing of the language-learning disabled. This paper describes resource room characteristics necessary to create a whole language-learning environment and outlines instructional practices consistent with whole language theory, such as reading aloud, language experience approach,…

A model for resource rooms based on four learning stations (dependent or teacher directed, related activity, peer tutoring, and independent stations) is advocated to provide for behavior management as well as individualized instruction of mildly handicapped students. (CL)

The author suggests ways to teach "campus survival skills" to handicapped students and suggests techniques for successfully integrating these students into the mainstream of campus life. (KC)

Procedures of school placement for 38 children (ages 5 to 18 years) with spina bifida in 23 school districts in western New York State were studied 5 years after a mandated process was enacted. (Author)

Described are five ways to coordinate resource room and regular education programs: (1) consultation services, (2) collaborative teaching/co-teaching, (3) structured recess program, (4) work completion groups, (5) and daily check-outs for contract monitoring. (DB)

This column offers two articles: one on problems in identifying students who are gifted and learning disabled and recommendations for working with this population; a second article describes a resource program for students in grades six through eight who are gifted and learning disabled, involving collaboration through weekly team meetings. (SW)

Discusses how gifted students can experience the musical and pictorial magic of language through storytelling. Techniques and activities to be used in the general classroom or gifted pull-out programs are presented for sharing personal expression, the joy of language, and new styles of thought and expression. (CR)

Using data from the Department of Education's 1997 Annual Report to Congress, this article examines changes that have occurred in the number of U.S. students who are identified with disabilities since inclusion began in earnest in the late 1980s, as well as the movement toward educating these students in more inclusive settings. (CR)

The paper describes problems endemic to the evaluation of programs for gifted and talented students. The goals of gifted and talented programs are often substantially different from those covered on outcome measures available to schools. When decisions are being made about the type of programs to be provided, parallel consideration should be given…

The proceedings of a workshop for parents and educators of handicapped children focuses on least restrictive environment. Three papers introduce the workshop: "Special Education: The Development of Services" (M. Reynolds); "Least Restrictive Environment: Decision Making" (H. Sobehart); and "Communication and Conferencing Skills for Parents" (J.…

A study of the reintegration of 382 severely emotionally disturbed/behaviorally disordered students (preschool through secondary) into less restrictive programs revealed that the expected continuum of services (most to least restrictive) were reversed. The predominant placement was full integration, followed in descending order by resource and…

Research published in April 1989 by H. L. Rich and S. M. Ross is reconsidered. Naturalistic observation of students in resource rooms, classrooms, special classes and special schools were used and results found resource rooms inherently flawed, a finding considered in this article to be unsupported by study data. (PB)

In response to criticism (EC 600 437), H. L. Rich and S. M. Ross defend their research published in April 1989. Naturalistic observation techniques used are discussed, conclusions regarding the regular education initiative supported, and findings concerning drawbacks of resource rooms reiterated and clarified. (PB)

This study investigated teachers' sense of efficacy and bias in decisions to refer students to special education. Teachers read a case study (under different conditions with varying student socioeconomic status and etiology of learning program) then judged student placement. Teachers' decisions were biased by variables unrelated to the student's…

Describes four models that have been shown to be effective in including students with disabilities in regular school programs: consultation, team teaching, aide services, and limited pullout service. Advantages and challenges of inclusion at the middle-school level are addressed. (DB)