This article provides a framework for systematically evaluating and adapting reading comprehension curriculum lessons for children with various reading abilities, including children with mild disabilities who are in the regular classroom. A sample checklist for evaluating reading comprehension curriculum lessons and a sample teaching format for…

Interviews with teachers of 17 small first-grade classes at 10 Edmonton (Alberta) schools found that teachers drew on the contextual benefits of small classes to support students' skill development in a creative and integrated curriculum. Teachers used individualization; active learning; integration of reading, writing, and speaking; and a variety…

Supported by Saint Paul and the Northern States Power Company, two Minnesota secondary teachers developed a pilot program, the Power League, aimed at returning 16- to 21-year olds to school. The City Academy grew out of students' requests for individual learning plans, an intimate learning community, and a sound school restructuring rationale.…

A collaborative model for special educators and parents to use in devising strategies parents can use at home for children with learning disabilities is described. A case study of a child whose parent tutored her using an individualized tutoring program designed by the special educator after the initial evaluation is presented. (CR)

Discusses the need for educational environments that allow for authentic learning. Shows how the Internet enables practice in which students are able to manipulate concepts for the sake of getting things done and receiving feedback regarding how well the application of an understanding worked. Provides examples of three learning activities on the…

Discusses strategies for successful inclusion of children with disabilities in general education classrooms. Describes necessary components and practices, including cooperative learning, strategy instruction, differentiated instruction, self-determination, explicit instruction, curriculum-based assessment, generalization techniques, collaboration,…

Describes the development of a one-credit Web-enhanced course at Rollins College (Florida) library that encompasses information literacy, basic computer literacy, and critical thinking skills. Topics include benefits to students, including learning at their own pace and communication with students and instructors; and the need to keep educational…

Interviews with students at an alternative high school for at-risk students in Estes Park, Colorado, reveal their attitudes toward learning, the instructional program, and the learning environment. Finds, for example, that students value teachers who care and hands-on learning experiences. (PKP)

The Central Nebraska Goodwill Industries Transition Model is a process initiated during the freshman year of high school. Involvement begins with assessment/evaluation activities culminating in development of a transition planning component to the Individualized Education Plan. The model includes development of a regional transition advisory…

Describes a program developed in Chino Valley (Arizona) schools that integrates computer technology into the curriculum to support heterogeneous grouping of students while providing special assistance for at-risk students. Highlights include the instructional management system, the role of teachers and support staff, and the role of the computer…

Explores what some deem the best way to objectively determine what a student knows. Adaptive Testing has been around since the early 1900's, but only with the advent of computers has it been effectively applied to day to day educational management. Cites a pilot study in Portland, Oregon, public schools. (MVL)

Surveys elementary administrators and social studies teachers in Billings, Montana concerning teaching methods used and those desirable to meet the needs of individual learners. Reports subjects' ratings of a variety of teaching methods and how well these methods address individual differences. (RS)

In "Centennial School District v. Commonwealth" the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that the school district only had to provide individualized instruction to the gifted student within the district's present curriculum. The decision can be cited as persuasive authority in the 25 states that have mandatory gifted education statutes. (MLF)

This response to Woodward and Noell (EC 607 857) notes the heavy investment of time required to develop educational software and specifically addresses concerns about computer-assisted instruction which does not incorporate computer-managed instruction; the supposedly "unique" needs of students with disabilities; and current technological…

An orientation and mobility (O&M) instructor presents a case study of a blind 14 year old with mild cognitive deficits and emotional and behavioral problems. The case study demonstrates the importance of individualizing the O&M curriculum, including changing the usual sequence of instruction. (DB)