Minimum competency testing seems here to stay. The challenge to teachers is to promote public realization that test performance cannot completely measure complex skills; that mandated basic skills instruction may be an oversimplification of the teaching/learning process; and that definitions of minimum competence constantly change. (SJL)

Describes a residential child care approach centered on group homes which views running away as one of several behavioral problems. A complex solution is offered which has resulted in a dramatic decrease in runaways. (Author/NRB)

Four papers (by A. Turnbull, J. Leonard, and R. Turnbull; A. Abeson; L. Burrello; and J. Fisher) respond to D. Sabatino's concerns over implementation of P.L. 94-142, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act. For related information, see EC 132 360. (CL)

Five types of teaching models intended to facilitate a mutually beneficial relationship between teacher preparation institutions and public schools are presented. (LH)

This report reviews some of the causes of teenage flight, statistics on the scope of the problem, and efforts, particularly federal initiatives, to deal with it. (SJL)

The study investigated the effectiveness of self-ratings vs a teacher- administered point system in reducing the disruptive behavior of five elementary level students. (SBH)

Focuses on two promising intervention programs for children with learning difficulties and looks at major issues in interpreting the effectiveness of such programs. Profiles the writing to read and the reading recovery programs, and discusses some of the criticisms that have been directed at these programs. (RJM)

Discusses challenges to adolescent mothers, adolescent fathers, and the young children of teenage parents. Describes recommended practices used in the Summer Training and Education Program, a life skills program; Between Us Sisters Starting To Operate Efficiently, a residential program; and the Developmental Training and Support Program, a staff…

This article describes use of the Awareness Enhancement Device with a typically developing 6-year-old child to reduce finger sucking despite the child's lack of motivation. This device delivers a tone contingent on occurrence of the target behavior. Substantial reductions in finger sucking resulted only with the addition of a more intense tone (90…

There is a strong comorbid relationship between conduct and substance disorders in youth. In the present study, 56 such youth were randomly assigned to receive either individual-cognitive therapy or family-behavioral therapy. Subjects in both groups demonstrated significant improvements in their conduct and reductions in their use of illicit drugs…

Reports the "Action Tract Project" (where a group of children with severe learning difficulties from a special school and a group of mainstream children from a neighboring high school in the South West of England) worked intensively together to produce a show "Together Again," which was performed for an invited audience.…

Provides empirical validation for a behavioral self-management technique to improve homework-related behavior. Elementary and junior high school students (N=42) learned the technique through audiocassettes and written material and mechanical aids. Results indicate that the technique may help children assume responsibility for their independent…

Imported from New Zealand in 1984, Reading Recovery currently operates in 9,800 schools nationwide. Now the much- touted program for teaching at-risk readers is facing questions about its effectiveness and cost. According to one researcher, Reading Recovery temporarily increases the rate of reading development but has little effect on developing…

A study evaluated a program for 54 elementary students with behavior problems in regular classrooms in Quebec. The program combined in-class social skills training and specific educational activities with peers, namely cooperative learning and tutoring by a prosocial peer. A modest effect size showed a relative improvement in social behavior.…

A review of research on the school consultation process as it relates to handicapped students focuses on issues in case problem solving, establishing and maintaining effective consultant-consultee relationships, and evaluating consultation outcomes. Topics discussed include interpersonal variables, relationship building, managing consultee…