This collection of papers focuses on practical approaches to resolving behavior problems in the Australian school system. The papers are divided into four general categories: perspectives on behavior problems, focusing on families, schools and system initiatives, and programs in special settings. The papers include: (1) "Beyond…

This guidebook to developing programs which include children with disabilities in general education classrooms offers a step-by-step process, specific instructions, scheduling helps, and master forms. An introduction (Section I) describes the COACH (Choosing Options and Accommodations for Children) approach identifying such assumptions as the…

This study, which was mandated in Title II of the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act, explores issues surrounding the financing of assistive technology and examines questions of accessibility, availability, affordability, and cost-effectiveness. The study offers a paradigm of disability focusing on how specific…

In light of debate about the developmentally inappropriate and culturally questionable use of standardized testing for placement of preschool children, alternative approaches to screening and assessment are required. The impact of a Head Start program upon children must involve documentation of physical and mental health, speech, hearing, vision,…

A 3-year research and development project examined ways to improve the retention of special education teachers in the Memphis (Tennessee) City Schools. Several individual studies identified sources of dissatisfaction with teaching and the conditions that would encourage career longevity among teachers. Responses from 470 special education and…

Noting that the collective stories of special education have grown out of a tradition that, by its nature tends to perpetuate problems, this book examines such narratives and how they influence thinking and belief about intelligence and learning. It begins by examining how the current story of intelligence developed and illustrates some of the…

This study examined the assessment and prescriptive practices used in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) efforts throughout the country. Project Directors (N=50) of projects funded under the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act were surveyed. The survey instrument was designed to assess Project…

This study examined the opinions and practices of 59 of Alabama's rehabilitation counselors who are assigned to serve secondary students with disabilities. Results are presented within the areas of: (1) Individualized Transition Program; (2) student/parent participation in transition, (3) assessment, (4) vocational preparation, (5) service…

This theme issue provides an overview of related services for school aged children with disabilities as required by federal law, especially the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It identifies the personnel associated with delivering various services including audiology, occupational…

This report documents the status of professional development and training for school personnel who work with students with disabilities in Alberta (Canada). A comprehensive review of postsecondary programs and courses was undertaken to determine required and optional courses containing special education content. Advocacy groups/associations were…

This guidebook offers practical advice to support special education teachers in their first year of teaching. The first chapter, "Getting Ready To Teach," outlines preparations necessary before school begins, such as organizing the classroom and establishing planning and record-keeping strategies. "Tips for the Classroom" lists what teachers…

This career planning guide is intended for college students with disabilities who desire careers in science, mathematics, or engineering. The booklet reflects the experiences and advice of 286 individuals with disabilities who are in these careers or preparing for them. The first section focuses on the personal autonomy available in the college…

The shortage of qualified special educators in Louisiana is critical, particularly in rural areas. Factors contributing to this shortage include low teacher salaries, reduction of tuition exemption for teachers taking certification courses, and higher tuition costs. University training programs must assist teachers in developing necessary…

A practicum was designed to increase mildly intellectually disabled students' written communication skills by demonstrating functional written expression skills in daily assignments and in social communication. A sequenced reading and language program with the integration of journal writing and computer applications was utilized. Seventh- and…

This document summarizes the history and results of a programmatic effort at Kent State University (Ohio) to develop and implement interdisciplinary Competency Based Personnel Preparation programs oriented to the education of practitioners and leadership personnel in the transition of youth and adults with special needs to the world of work. It…