This article identifies the visually handicapped population, discusses their special educational needs, and considers the educational program in terms of their assessment, placement, individualized education programs, and needs for educational aids. (CB)

Three instructional approaches have worked well in increasing reading fluency of students with reading difficulties: previewing; hypothesis/test training; and repeated readings. However, it is crucial that students also receive instruction in reading comprehension. (CB)

Research based suggestions are presented for effective vocabulary instruction strategies, including: learning new labels; learning concepts; and learning to learn meanings. Regardless of the method chosen, it is crucial that students: demonstrate generalization abilities; be given time to learn new material; periodically review what they learn;…

Research based teaching strategies for improving the reading comprehension of mildly handicapped students include identifying learning goals, breaking goals into simpler units, ordering instruction developmentally, and teaching the use of metacognitive strategies for reading. (CB)

A self-monitoring treatment (via taped cues) was used to increase time-on-task behavior of two emotionally disturbed and three mentally retarded elementary grade children, all of whom were easily distracted from class activities. In general, the program resulted in improved attention to task and academic productivity. (CB)

Four statewide programs offering such services as help in selection, education, and awareness of assistive devices for disabled students are described: the Pennsylvania Assistive Device Center, MissouriLINC, the New Jersey Assistive Device Center, and the Center for Computer Opportunities for the Disabled (Massachusetts). A contact person is…

Teachers can foster open communication and parental involvement through use of a daily reportcard system for students with academic or behavior problems. Suggestions are provided for: gathering baseline data; identifying areas of concern; designing the report format; selecting reinforcers; conducting student conferences; implementing the system;…

Through self-management training, students learn to take control of their actions and make appropriate decisions. Four self-management strategies for enhancing mildly handicapped adolescents' job are self-instruction, self-questioning, self-monitoring, and self-reinforcement. (CB)

Two case studies involving preschool children with developmental learning disabilities (one with nystagmus and one with a hearing impairment) point to the need for appropriate ability as well as disability identification and assessment procedures (both had been diagnosed as mentally retarded) the potential of early diagnosis and intervention for…

The article presents a five-step model for implementing a consulting teacher model and effective interventions for mildly handicapped students in regular education settings. Interventions include principles of effective teaching, mastery learning, peer and cross-age tutoring, cooperative learning groups, and instruction in metacognitive learning…

The article examines recent literature on the promised benefits of microcomputer application in teaching mildly handicapped students, and analyzes the extent to which research has revealed positive results in eight areas of effective instructional practice (e.g., motivation, self-concept, direct instruction, drill and practice, and writing…

The article discusses ways that cognitive behavioral training (CBT) methods might facilitate acquisitions of basic skills in mildly handicapped students. Elements of the CBT approach are described and studies are reviewed regarding effective teaching, time, and technology. (CL)

The author examines two types of criticism (theoretical and practical) of special education knowledge, reviews the implications of metatheoretical criticism (including the concepts of paradigm and paradigm shift), and asserts that special education knowledge should be paradigmatic and multidisciplinary. (CL)

Learning disabled elementary school children can learn subtraction skills with the aid of "hide and seek" number concept cards and a five-step sequence: (1) find a way to work it out, (2) add to check, (3) look for subtraction "partners," (4) group facts into "families," and (5) practice. (CB)

The mercury switch is a simple device which allows severely handicapped students to easily turn on or off electrical devices. Directions and diagrams are given for construction of the switch, its uses, modification of toys to utilize the switch, and correcting problems with the switch or other adaptive equipment. (DB)