Characteristics of the target population, services, and potential source of helpers are determining factors in the cost effectiveness of home health services. Welfare of patients in the experimental group was improved, and lower probability of residential care helped keep costs down. (JAC)

The Ss were 63 first graders with reading and school readiness problems. It was found that Ss who received psycholinguistic training did not show significantly more psycholinguistic improvement than did Ss trained using traditional methods. (Author/DLS)

A review of research on sex education for people with mental retardation finds a need for sex education due to a number of factors, such as deinstitutionalization, the increased incidence of sexual abuse, the advent of AIDS, and interest people with mental retardation have expressed in learning about sexuality. (CR)

Reports findings from a survey of 385 supported employment agencies on their use of natural supports in time-lined and extended services. Eighty-five percent reported that their agencies emphasize natural supports and that these supports have been successful. Resistance to natural supports by employers and coworkers is discussed. (Author/CR)

This study examined placement outcomes for 133 individuals (most aged 17 to 21) with mental retardation or severe learning disability. Nearly 50% of the men but only 1% of the women were competitively employed. Results suggest the need for more rehabilitation training for women, focusing on self-determination skills (assertiveness, self-advocacy,…

The New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council and the New York State Division of Library Development collaborated to create 19 library-based parent resource centers to provide information on child development, disabilities, and parenting. Describes program components; impacts on patron satisfaction, library services, and the…

This study examined perceptions of 15 British parents whose children with physical disabilities attended a three-week conducive education program focused on functional development, pedagogy, and language and social development. A majority of parents reported progress in walking, motivation, and grasp. Progress was least reported in sleeping,…

Investigated the impact of integrated proofreading strategy training, which combined a computer-based spelling checker and student strategies, on the proofreading of three secondary students with learning disabilities. Students showed an increase in strategy use and percentage of spelling errors corrected on controlled proofreading materials and…

This study examined the relationship of school-level changes in the reading performance of students in general and special education to school environmental variables associated with "effective schools" reforms in 56 California schools. Results indicated inverse relationships between changes in general and special education students'…

A study of a junior high school inclusion program that provided four students with disabilities with nondisabled student aids found the students with disabilities experienced growth in levels of independence, social networks, academic skills, and in behavior. Describes beneficial outcomes for the student aids and contributing successful program…

Consumer satisfaction and social validity were measured during a double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of risperidone in treating aberrant behaviors of persons with developmental disabilities. A survey showed all 17 caregivers felt participation was positive. Community members (n=52) also indicated that when on medication, the 5 participants…

This article describes strategic content learning (SCL), a strategies-training model that integrates cognitive, behavioral, sociocultural, and constructivist learning theories. The theoretical rationale for SCL is provided, followed by a review of research documenting SCL efficacy for postsecondary students with learning disabilities. Preliminary…

This article summarizes findings presented in a report by the Audit Commission on the provision for children with disabilities. It discusses widespread dissatisfaction with student assessment, development of statements, resource allocation to support children with special educational needs, and procedures to ensure services are effective.…

A study examined perceptions of 26 teachers, including 13 special educators, of the Peer Buddy Programs implemented in a Nashville school district. Teachers reported positive relationships between buddies and their partners with disabilities and enhanced personal growth for students with disabilities. The majority agreed buddies assisted in a…

Argues that bilingual (American Sign Language/English) education programs for all children with deafness, regardless of the severity of their hearing loss, may be ineffective in promoting English language literacy and access to the academic curriculum. (12 references) (MDM)