This one-page abstract, was derived from document abstracts listed in "Research on the Effectiveness of Mainstreaming," an ERIC Computer Search Reprint containing bibliographic information and abstracts on more than 120 studies. In the studies reviewed, the role of regular and special education teachers is identified as critical to the…

This book review of "Creating Collaborative and Inclusive Schools" by Lorna Idol summarizes the factors the book sees as critical in the development of such schools but raises concerns about the author's distinction between inclusion and mainstreaming and the lack of attention to specific skills needed for effective communication and…

Reviews Lipsky and Gartner's book, "Beyond Separate Education: Quality Education for All," and Biklen, Ferguson, and Ford's book, "Schooling and Disability: (NSSE Yearbook Series)." Discusses the shared opinion that the direction of reform should be toward the integration of handicapped children into the regular school program. (JS)

There has recently been an explosion of interest and writing about autism, autism spectrum disorders, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDDNOS). This issue of the "Early Childhood Bulletin" suggests readings for parents, therapists, and professionals serving on Interagency…

This one-page abstract summarizes results of a final report of a federally funded research project titled, "Research Integration Project: Analysis and Review of Research on Least Restrictive Environments for Handicapped Learners." The goal of the project was the review, analysis, and interpretation of research on the concept of…

Reviews research on the use of computers in preschool and kindergarten classrooms and their effect on social development. Also discusses gender differences in computer use among young children and the effects of computer-based activities on the inclusion of children with disabilities. Implications for preschool curriculum are examined. (MDM)

Summarized is a report by Jane Burnette titled "Adapting Instructional Materials for Mainstreamed Students," which describes federally sponsored projects to develop publishable supplements and adaptations of popular textbooks for use with mainstreamed handicapped students. The modifications were made to elementary curricula in science…

This issue of the newsletter focuses on early intervention for handicapped preschool children. The lead article, entitled "Promoting Independent Work Skills in Handicapped Preschool Children," highlights findings of a project designed to identify critical skills needed for independent functioning in mainstream preschool and kindergarten…