The reference guide presents information on placing special education students in the community for "specially designed" career exploration or "specially designed" vocational training in Iowa. Much of the information is in question and answer format. An introductory section provides background on the employee-employer relationship, Workman's Compensation and Unemployment Insurance, and federal wage and hour regulations. A section on career exploration activities briefly describes their basic purpose, discusses the need for orientation, and provides an example of a recording form. A section on vocational training defines such related terms as student trainee, handicapped worker, training plan, and cooperative education. Components of a training agreement (a management tool to set the stage for training) and a training plan (a listing of student goals and objectives) are described. Examples of agreements and plans are included along with information on financial aspects. Vocational cooperative education (in which students receive instruction through a joint school-employer venture) is considered in terms of a program model. Provisions made for a lower minimum wage for handicapped workers are addressed, and sample applications and certificates included. A section on full-time students in work release or work study is followed by information on sheltered workshops and work activity centers. A final section presents age specific information regarding state laws and regulations on such topics as apprenticeships, hazardous occupations, and hour regulations. (CL)