Described is a 1972 workshop designed to train Pennsylvania personnel in assessing and programing for low functioning or difficult retardates. State legislation dealing with education of the retarded is reviewed. Considered are assessment techniques in the following areas: motor, communication, cognitive, and social-emotional development and maladaptive behavior. Profiling an individual's development and establishing behavioral objectives for motor, self-help, communication, language, cognitive, and social emotional skills are discussed, and techniques of behavior modification, parent training, and programing for the blind, deaf, and multiply handicapped retarded are examined. Explored is the role of supportive personnel in programing for the low functioning child. The Mansfield Training Program for the severely and profoundly retarded is described, and evaluations of the workshop and training model are summarized. Also included are listings of approximately 100 references, workshop materials (including texts, films, and handouts), materials available from United Cerebral Palsy Associations, and workshop participants. (CL)