Gaps between multicultural theory and practice present some serious challenges and opportunities for future directions in the field. Instead of arguing about the best way to do multicultural education, it is more useful and empowering to legitimize multiple-levels appropriateness in working toward systemic reform. (SLD)

Repetition and learning by heart, though condemned by pedagogic and acquisition theorists, are two of the most pleasurable, valuable, and efficient language learning activities. Neglect of intimate discourse has led to neglect of the importance of repetition in first language discourse, which has in turn led to the prohibition of repetition and…

Issues that are central to special education and appear destined to remain so are discussed, including professional divisions among special educators and between special and regular educators, the population to be served, individualization, and placement. (JDD)

Examines literacy events in young students' lives, reviewing past and present literacy practices which encourage reading and writing skills. Identifies specific routines and texts that can be used in a primary school setting to encourage literacy. (MDM)

Argues that reflective practice informed by anthropological perspectives can help educators address practice-based puzzlements and improve educational practice in culturally diverse classrooms. Offers examples of how reflective practice, informed by anthropological concepts and methods and illuminated by understanding of different cultures,…

A narration of teaching experiences in an inner-city school in California is the basis for a proposed democratic educational platform that suggests ways to move beyond the despair and frustration of inner-city teaching without losing sight of the painful realities. Implications for teacher education are discussed. (SLD)

This response to five case studies of inclusive practices for elementary students with learning disabilities raises questions about bottom-line practices expected in inclusive classrooms, the relationship between classrooms and their schools and administrators, and how the case studies can be used to stimulate development of the next generation of…

This response to five case studies of inclusive practices for elementary students with learning disabilities evaluates the studies by standards that require prioritized objectives, adapted methods and materials, effective teacher presentation, and systematic monitoring. It finds that the case studies show shortcomings in all areas, which appeared…

A nationwide survey of braille instructors in adult rehabilitation centers found that: most teachers taught braille to fewer than 20 percent of clients; few taught complex reading skills; instructors' attitudes were influenced by their training site, type of college degree, and degree of vision; and teaching behaviors were affected by teaching…

This paper notes a Canadian survey on the policies and practices of mainstreaming and integration of disabled students and suggests that, although widespread integration exists, there is a growing disaffection with the demands of mainstreaming which include individualized instruction, personalized success structuring, and continuous learning. (DB)

This article reports on a 1988 survey of music programs in 49 residential schools for blind and visually impaired students. It presents information on teachers, materials, course offerings, accomplishments, goals, and administrative concerns. Recommendations include communication among music teachers, more involvement by music therapists, and…

Discusses the educational philosophies of the two camps of the Progressive Education Movement: the child-centered education camp, exemplified by the work of John Dewey, and mass education camp exemplified by the rising "science" of educational testing (led by Edward L. Thorndike) and the growth and centralized authority of large…

This article introduces the papers included in this special issue on special education of African-American youth. It notes the multidimensional problems confronting African-American students in special education settings and urges special educators and service providers to take new directions in educating at-risk African-American students. (JDD)

This article outlines the current vocational education and training system in England and Wales; notes current reform efforts to increase privatization, decentralization, and enterprise; identifies obstacles to change; and considers decentralized decision making in the context of the 1988 Education Reform Act. (Author/DB)

This paper argues that, if teachers are to be held accountable for instructional quality, then the educational establishment must be held accountable for providing teachers with relevant knowledge and the feasible professional tools derived from that knowledge. Suggestions are offered for developing this accountability, such as field testing…