Social incompetence is a significant cause of postsecondary maladjustment for the learning disabled. The literature is reviewed on factors critical to occupational success; social development of the learning disabled; major social incompetencies (specifically, social perception and problem solving, task-related social behaviors, and social…

Discusses the evaluation of "survival texts" for immigrants in terms of the accuracy of the texts' portrayal of immigrants' reality and the extent to which they shape reality. Examples show that frequently the materials' content and communicative structure do not reflect authentic interaction and that they emphasize subservient social roles. (SED)

Outlines key problem-solving and decision-making skills in which special needs students are deficient. Discusses the importance of teaching those skills. Describes a specific procedure called the Personal Problem Solving Guide, which utilizes readily available personal computer technology to teach children social decision-making and…

Provides a summary of seven eras reflecting the philosophical perspectives that have influenced the treatment of handicapped individuals in the past. Issues concerning the integration of handicapped people into the community are reviewed. A conceptual framework for examining factors that influence service delivery is provided. (Author/BJV)

Reviews some of the major developments in teaching and training relevant community skills to mentally retarded persons. The following adaptive skills are discussed: (1) toilet use and bed wetting; (2) eating, dressing, and personal hygiene; (3) community survival; and (4) vocational and social skills. (BJV)

This article describes the characteristics of before- and after-school child care programs and deliniates the features needed to accommodate children with special needs. Potential ways to adapt current programs to fill this need and suggestions for design of future programs are discussed. Characteristics of effective programs are reviewed. (PB)

A number of risks researchers have identified with latchkey children are described. The lack of effective advocacy on behalf of such children is discussed and special educators in general are seen as well-suited to the advocate's role resulting from their knowledge base, experience, and commitment to preventive programing. (PB)

Functional curricula are intended to facilitate the development of age-appropriate skills that are essential for participation of individuals with autism within a diversity of integrated environments. When one is considering which skills to teach, the longitudinal process of promoting increased independence throughout life must be considered, and…

Surveys the current status of assistive technology for individuals with learning disabilities and considers future promises and potential problems. A model is presented for conceptualizing assistive technology in terms of the types of barriers it helps to surmount. Efficacy research is reviewed for word processing, computer-based instruction,…

This paper provides a discussion of definitions, historical precursors, and prevalence figures for children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and highlights relevant medical and behavioral characteristics. It also addresses the educational implications of working with children with FAS in terms of instruction and curriculum. Educators are urged…

This study addresses the issues surrounding the status of latchkey programs in the United States. These issues include concerns about the responsibilities and roles of parents, schools, and community agencies in providing care for latchkey children, the types of programs that need to be developed, and the types of "survival skills"…

The concern of educators and the general public over the decline in basic skills achievement of students nationwide has led to a national push for results-oriented instruction and educational accountability. Many states are developing tests for life-related competencies which students should master during the schooling process. States moving…

Researchers and practitioners have generally concentrated on the following areas of social competence: (1) social assertion; (2) interviewing skills; and (3) conversational ability. Reviews issues of methodology. Studies are reviewed and recommendations for future research are made. (Author/BJV)

Reviews changes in the U.S. family by comparing its structure and function in 1960 and in 1990. Finds dramatic changes in women's roles and attitudes; new parenting approaches; and effects on children's social, physical, and emotional success. Argues that children and their care are being neglected. (JB)

The article highlights empirically validated instructional intervention programs for teaching independent living skills to moderately and severely retarded individuals in the areas of self-care, home management, consumer education, and community mobility as these skills relate to adaptive behavior in community settings. (Author/JW)