Virtual reality is an emerging technology that has resulted in rapid expansion in the development of virtual immersive environments for use as educational simulations in schools, colleges and universities. This article presents an overview of virtual reality, describes a number of applications currently being used by special educators for…

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show varying levels of impairment in social skills situations. Interventions have been developed utilizing virtual environments (VEs) to teach and improve social skills. This article presents a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed journal articles focusing on social interventions in VEs…

This review of literature highlights the empirical work to date in the area of K-12 distance education and online learning. While research indicates that distance and online learning can be equally effective as compared to more traditional learning environments for many students, there is little empirical evidence to suggest that previously…

Overviews the development of special education in several sub-Saharan African countries; describes the current status of special education programs in terms of financing and quality of educational services; and offers suggestions for improving special education services through curriculum development, teacher training, appropriate facilities and…

Overviews the recent history of special education, including common educational practices and the advantages and disadvantages of full inclusion. A survey of 336 educators in one urban and two rural New Mexico communities found agreement with only 2 of 27 statements regarding potential benefits of inclusion, but with all 26 statements representing…

Difficulties in transitioning students with disabilities in rural areas include poor postschool outcomes, transportation problems, limited job market, negative attitudes toward job training programs (resulting from high unemployment), lack of job training sites, and lack of information concerning job accommodation for disabled workers. Includes…

Addresses differences between rural and urban communities in terms of family characteristics, home life, cultural values, social norms, and economic structures. Implications for rural special education include understanding the diversity of rural communities, developing relationship-based services, and considering ecocultural factors when…

Summarizes literature regarding the accomplishments and challenges of rural education and rural special education in terms of rural schools and teachers, rural families, and rural communities. Suggests that rural children with disabilities will be well served in the future through additional resources, more professionally trained and qualified…

Involving families in the education of a child with a disability is beneficial to all concerned. Unfortunately, initiating and sustaining that involvement is often difficult, particularly in rural communities. A rationale for and challenges to family involvement are briefly reviewed. Twenty-one effective practical strategies for involving rural…

Disabled children in rural areas face special challenges in preparing for independence in communities where services are inadequate. Rural special education teachers must become promoters of independent living for disabled young people. Possibilities are outlined for teacher interventions with individuals and families and advocacy efforts.…

Disabled persons may receive needed personal assistance from spouse, parents, other family, or a hired assistant (possibly shared) who is compensated by cash or barter. Disabled persons in rural areas rely heavily on family members and face overwhelming locational, financial, and attitudinal barriers to independent living. (SV)

Examines features of independent living philosophy with regard to compatibility with Native American cultures, including definition or conceptualization of disability; self-advocacy; systems advocacy; peer counseling; and consumer control and involvement. Discusses an actualizing process as one method of resolving cultural conflicts and…

Discusses current problems and issues facing vocational special education in rural areas, including limited educational access resulting from isolation, teacher shortages, and financial problems; curriculum shortcomings; lack of relevance to local job market; and lack of local employment opportunities. Describes successful rural strategies,…

Survey of 40 state directors of special education identified skills and expertise necessary for personnel in special education transition programs. Tables list required and desired teacher competencies. Recommends that teacher preparation programs include a range of skills and information much broader than current traditional special education…

Recent court decisions indicate a movement towards supporting more integrated educational settings for students with disabilities. Recent legal decisions are discussed with regard to least restrictive environment, benefits of self-contained or regular education placement, supplemental aids and services, curriculum modifications, continuum of…