The major goal of this guide is to provide easily understood information on the basic characteristics of individuals classified as special needs learners (in this case, disadvantaged and handicapped persons) and on basic methods that have been proven to be effective with them. Updated from a previous publication, this handbook is targeted to include not only vocational educators but also the many other professionals involved in employment-related education and training of individuals who have special needs, such as professionals in private industry or in manpower development programs funded under the Job Training Partnership Act. The booklet is organized into five sections. The first section, which introduces the guide, answers the question: "Who is the special needs learner?" In sections 2 and 3, disadvantaged learners and handicapped learners (i.e., emotionally/behaviorally handicapped, learning disabled, mentally handicapped, hearing impaired, physically handicapped, speech impaired, and visually handicapped) are discussed. In a question-and-answer format, these sections cover the definition of disadvantaged and handicapped learners and their special needs as well as provide some practical suggestions that can be used to help them. Methods for testing these various groups of special needs learners are covered in the fourth section, while the final section lists organizations in Indiana and in the nation that can provide help for persons working with special needs learners. (KC)