This paper begins with the discussion of how certain developments in psychology have influenced present educational methods, and how recent work in learning theory, developmental psychology, and psychometrics strongly suggests new directions for educational research and practice. This theme is discussed in the context of a central problem in education--the individualization of instruction, or, in other terms, adapting educational environments to individual differences. The paper focuses on the education of the young child in the preschool and elementary school years, although the discussion seems applicable to all levels of our educational system. A selective mode of education is characterized by minimal variation in the conditions under which individuals are expected to learn. A narrow range of instructional options is provided, and a limited number of ways to succeed are available. In contrast, an adaptive mode of education assumes that the educational environment can provide for a wide range and variety of instructional methods and opportunities for success. Alternative means of learning are adaptive to and are in some way matched to knowledge about each individual--his background, talents, interests, and the nature of his past performance. (Author/JM)