Discussion of classroom amplification systems to improve the performance of students with hearing loss or learning disabilities addresses the auditory challenges of inclusive classrooms, changing the classroom environment to reduce noise, types of amplification systems, and what teachers observe about amplification. (Contains references.) (DB)

This article describes how one secondary writing teacher integrated two computer-assisted strategies into her writing curriculum to enable students to use writing as a means of thinking. Strategies involved providing feedback on other students' writing and on addressing issues of interest in online synchronous chats. Application with students who…

This article describes a university affiliated summer program which provided 16 young adults with Williams Syndrome with a creative dramatics program highlighting their language and musical talents. The article discusses the characteristic strengths and weaknesses of people with Williams syndrome, meeting students' interests and learning styles,…

Discussion of applying strategies of cooperative learning offers five principles and reflections of one teacher. The principles are: (1) teach what you preach; (2) accountability counts; (3) mediation versus aggravation; (4) publish or perish; and (5) create or satiate. Suggestions for evaluation include encouraging student feedback and moving…

Discussion of transition planning in the area of physical activity and recreation/leisure for students with disabilities considers notes the increased opportunities of students transitioning into community-based programs and offers two case studies. Emphasis is on exposing students to a variety of activities at a young age and integration into…

Principles of transition planning for students with disabilities include: (1) the overriding role of self-determination, (2) the need to link outcomes with annual goals and short-term objectives, and (3) addressing seven specific challenges (such as too vague goals and objectives, limited expectations, and lack of action planning). (Contains…

A review of research on teaching students with learning disabilities about history first identifies principles of effective instruction (e.g., instruction that is direct, explicit and visible) and then reports on the development and evaluation of an 8-week unit on immigration for students working cooperatively in heterogeneous groups. Evaluation…

This article discusses the importance of using a family-centered approach in early childhood intervention and practices that integrate child assessment within the context of the family. Strategies for developing an integrated approach within the different components of the assessment process are described. Principles for assessments with family…

This article discusses how musical activities were added to a childcare playground and the benefits for a young child with blindness. The six-station "Sound Path" is described, and suggestions are provided for using sound pipes to develop sensorimotor skills, social and communication skills, cognitive skills, and emotional skills. (Contains…

A mother of a son with Down syndrome discusses how her family and child care providers work with him in natural environments to support his learning in daily activities. She urges other parents to keep trying until they find the right match that works for their family. (CR)

This article first differentiates educational and transitional services for students with significant disabilities, ages 18-21, and then reviews options for age-appropriate educational and transition experiences for this population. These include: (1) programs that serve public school students on college campuses and in community settings and (2)…

Discussion of requirements of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) under the 1997 amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act examines key components of the IEP, who constitutes the IEP team, roadblocks to effective use of the IEP, the top 10 common problems in IEPs, making the most of the IEP, transition planning, and…

This article discusses key components relevant to providing appropriate services for students with health care needs, reviews common health conditions in school-aged children and youth and recommended medical management, and describes school health care needs and related accommodations that may be made for students with each condition. (Contains…

This article discusses the increasing use of paraprofessionals in special education and addresses the following five areas: the role of paraprofessionals, the impact of the proximity of paraprofessionals on students with disabilities, the impact of paraprofessionals on teacher engagement, the importance of professional recognition, and strategies…

This article by a recipient of the Council for Exceptional Children's Research Award presents the author's perspective of research as detective work, starting from the investigation of dyslexia, and progressing to such topics as the design of secondary education for students with learning disabilities, dropouts, classroom and instructional…