An extended abstract is provided for a major article titled "The Effects of Frequent Curriculum-Based Measurement and Evaluation on Pedagogy, Student Achievement, and Student Awareness of Learning" is described. The article summarizes research on the educational effects of data-based program modification (DBPM). Thirty-nine special…

The first of a projected series of three studies addressing the differing organizational contexts of the special education director's work and the resulting consequences, this investigation examined the work of a special education director in a "staff" position with respect to the consequences to the district at this organizational…

Special education teachers in rural and urban areas in California were asked to rate their present skill level and desired skill level for 13 bilingual special education teaching competencies. Both groups desired higher skills in all competencies, and both selected parent training skills as competencies they most desired to gain. (JHZ)

Therapists and educators in early childhood special education programs have several potential sources of conflict ensuing from differing professional backgrounds, quality control, coordination problems, material equity, and lack of policy. A model for intensive and extensive training to improve the integration of therapy and therapists into the…

The 13 readings in this book offer guidelines for designing and developing programs for gifted students. An introductory chapter by the editor considers the benefits of special programs for gifted students and the challenges of their development. The following chapters are: (1) "From Needs and Goals to Program Organization: A Nuts-and-Bolts Guide"…

This report synthesizes information from the Study of Personnel Needs in Special Education on factors associated with special education teacher quality and teachers' intent to remain in the profession. It applies these findings to the school administrator's role in promoting teacher quality. Concerning teacher quality and career plans, it finds…

This chapter from a North Dakota guide for early childhood special education personnel focuses on staff and facilities for programs for young children with special needs. Following an introduction, the first section presents North Dakota guidelines concerning qualification of teachers, physical facilities, required instructional time, and…

The study identified the similarities and differences among the self-reported perceptions of 312 parents and professionals regarding roles, criteria, and authority used for making decisions on the provision of occupational, physical, and speech/language therapy as related services for students with severe disabilities. (JDD)

Collaboration between a supervisor and a teacher of nine first and second graders with hearing loss is recounted. Discussion includes reconsideration of classroom setup, expansion of the reading program to include more guided reading, documentation of student progress, more guided writing, and more shared decision making. (DB)

As assistive devices for students with disabilities become more useful and less expensive, special educators participating on teams which evaluate and select appropriate technology must consider fundamental educational principles, student characteristics, and the characteristics of the technology. (A table lists annual assistive technology…

Project NETWORC (Nevada Educational Television Working Out in Rural Communities) is presented as a model for ensuring effective preparation of rural special education teachers by delivering university courses to individuals already working in rural communities. Four courses are offered, each having a video segment, audioteleconferencing segment,…

This paper discusses the background and context of the national assessment movement as it relates to special education teacher preparation programs; the relationship between assessment and accreditation, with attention to the federal regulations for education effectiveness; recommendations for assessment planning; and suggested content areas for…

This paper examines the pressures placed on northern Manitoba (Canada) communities to meet provincial legislative requirements for certification of special education teachers, the special needs of native northerners, and principles guiding an appropriate education program. Special emphasis is given to the need for distance education and…

This study examined transdisciplinary teaming as a means to enhance integrated related service instruction for individuals with disabilities. Results of a survey of 12 preservice students studying special education or adapted physical education indicated that their perceptions and comfort in working across disciplines were more positive after…

This paper points out the importance of special educators' communication skills in effective collaboration. The basic components of face-to-face communication are discussed, emphasizing the role of the speaker and listener. An explanation of the process of active listening is also included, noting possible verbal and nonverbal listener responses.…