Provides a case study in support of inclusion of autistic children in regular school classrooms. Argues that special needs children must experience an environment that resembles the typical outside world. Examines the role of special education, experience in the classroom, and preparation for life. Reiterates that skills acquired to manage life…

A study of three children with multiple disabilities (two in first grade and one in fourth grade) tested the effectiveness of an intervention designed to increase peer interaction. The intervention included providing information to classmates on the use of communication aids, utilization of media for social interactions, and facilitation of social…

Two children (ages seven and eight) with autism and moderate mental retardation, who engaged in stereotypic behavior, were studied to investigate the effects of social interaction with peers. Results found that when peers made social initiations and the children engaged in social interaction, collateral decreases occurred in their stereotypic…

Summarizes a study that reveals that light-skin-toned and European-looking Mexican Americans receive about 1.5 more years of schooling that darker and more Indian-looking Mexican Americans. Differences in schooling by phenotype persisted with and without controls for other factors. Includes tables of statistical data. (MJP)

This essay reviews "Special Education: A Matter of Choice" (Josephine Jenkinson), a book that discusses the major issues and changes that have occurred in special education in the various states and territories of Australia over the past 30 years. It is concluded that the book is an extremely useful guide. (CR)

Racial and ethnic separation and isolation can be countered through significantly increasing the number of minority teachers. Students learn important societal lessons through the example of cooperative interracial and interethnic relationships among teachers. Discusses implications for teacher education, recruitment, assignment, and retention,…

Studies the relationship of educational level and knowledge of English on the differential integration of 71 post-1965 Greek immigrants into the religious structure of the Greek community of New York, New York. Tentatively concludes that socioeconomic status may play a larger role than the variables explored. (FMW)

To increase students' academic success and retention rates, colleges and universities are increasingly implementing seminars that will equip students with academic survival skills such as note-taking and doing library research. UNCC's program was found to be effective, and possibilities for further investigation were offered. (BF)

Use of a model for systematic ecological assessment was tested in a work experience program for special education inclusion assistants placed in inclusive preschools. Preliminary evaluation data suggest that the model produces integrated developmental activities, use of peer mediation, and a play-based approach to discrete skill development.…

Connects the concept of diversity to the symbiotic relationship between individuality and community in the United States. Maintains that cultural awareness is a valid and realistic response to global interdependence and changing demographics. Criticizes the notion of ethnic pluralism as a "balkanizing" influence on communities and the…

This study used microethnographic techniques to analyze the communication strategies used by a hearing-impaired preschool child to access social interactions. Strategies tended to be similar to those of his peer subgroup, though nonverbal strategies prevailed. Teachers promoted the child's verbal request "Can I play," but it was unsuccessful in…

Interviews with 2,048 Norwegian adults support the hypotheses that the high social status associated with higher education protects educated adults from direct competition with immigrants; high education strengthens the general ability of mastering; and high education creates motivation and the ability to act opportunistically. Unsupported…

Identifies different types of minorities (i.e., autonomous, immigrant or voluntary, and nonimmigrant or involuntary) and suggests that immigrant minorities are more successful in school and society than involuntary minorities because they view cultural and language differences as barriers to overcome, whereas involuntary minorities develop new,…

Presents secondary students' perceptions of cooperative learning (CL) in an attempt to understand how and why CL benefits students affectively and cognitively. After describing the structure of learning and schooling, the article discusses how CL promotes positive interdependence, social skills, work skills, and individual accountability. (SM)

A college teacher used cooperative learning in English as a Second Language and linguistics classrooms. She discovered international students enjoyed working and writing in small groups and getting to know other students. Linguistics students enjoyed whole-class cooperative projects and papers. All students gained experience in being colleagues.…