This text, one of two volumes on the instruction of students with visual impairments, focuses on the history and theory of teaching such students. The following chapters are included: (1) "Historical Perspectives" (Phil Hatlen) with emphasis on the last 50 years; (2) "Visual Impairment" (Kathleen M. Huebner) which provides general information about blindness and visual impairment; (3) "The Visual System (Marjorie E. Ward) contains basic information on the causes of visual impairment; (4) "Growth and Development of Young Children" (Kay Alicyn Ferrell); (5) "Growth and Development in Middle Childhood and Adolescence" (Karen E. Wolffe); (6) "Psychosocial Needs of Children and Youths" (Dean W. Tuttle and Naomi R. Tuttle); (7) "Children and Youths with Visual Impairments and Other Exceptionalities" (Rosanne K. Silberman); (8) "Multicultural Issues" (Madeline Milian); (9) "Educational Programming" (Sandra Lewis and Carol B. Allman); and (10) "Professional Practice" (Alan J. Koenig and M. Cay Holbroke). Seven appendices include a federal government policy statement on educating blind and visually impaired students; codes of ethics for teachers, orientation and mobility specialists, rehabilitation teachers, and low vision therapists; standards for entry into professional practice; and a statement of necessary knowledge and skills for beginning special education teachers of students with visual impairments. A glossary and list of resources is also provided. (Individual chapters contain references.) (DB)