This paper presents a survey of research, development and programatic efforts concerned with education for the disadvantaged throughout the world. The primary focus of this report is on the patterns and trends reflected in these efforts, one of which is the considerable attention paid by numerous countries to such concerns as early childhood and preschool education, language and basic skills development, curriculum modification, remedial activity, involvement of family, community development, and vocational training and career development. Approaches taken by different countries are described in detail. Related racial and ethnic discrimination is discussed in terms of program efforts that focus on development of multicultural or culturally pluralistic experiences. In addition, social, economic, cultural, and educational problems which contribute to individuals and groups being disadvantaged are compared and contrasted as they are manifested in various countries. (Author/EB)