Effective teachers of students with disabilities respond successfully to students' individual needs by ensuring that students understand the purpose of their activities, by presenting students with variety and choice, by encouraging them to reflect upon and review their learning, by making flexible use of time and resources, and by implementing…

The article examines the roles of special educators in providing a variety of support services in mainstream settings including as support facilitator, specialist, professional peer collaborator, as part of a mainstream/teacher assistance team, and in cooperative teaching. (DB)

This paper argues the need to examine the images and responses evoked by labels applied to children, the field of special education, and those who work in the field. The paper considers whether these labels or names move the field toward its collective goal of delivering quality services to children and their families. (JDD)

The author speculates about what might occur if special educators became more aware of some of the assumptions with which regular educators justify their practice. He then explores the consequences of understanding the bases of and accepting each of these assumptions. (CT)

This commentary outlines the unique features of the profession of special education, such as its emphasis on the individual; teamwork with other school-based professionals; and the influence, both tangible and intangible, on children's development. The editorial concludes that there is "just enough wonderful" each day to encourage teachers to…

Suggests that instructing deaf children to use the library can be effective if both teacher and librarian cooperate to make the instruction meaningful. Incorporating the children's own experiences into lessons, using informal teaching methods, and correlating the curriculum with library resources are recommended. (FM)

The importance of laughter and humor to enhance education, and special education in particular, is addressed. A sense of humor is an attitude, and humor together with enthusiasm helps students enjoy the learning process. Humor can make students become more alert, and can have very positive influences on affect. A funny remark, a pleasant…

Communication between the teacher and paraprofessional who implement the handicapped child's individualized education program can be enhanced through preacademic year planning (of classroom arrangement and the assignment of responsibilities, the holding of regularly scheduled meetings, on the spot communication, and written communication (such as…

This paper examines the student placement decision-making process since the 1950s noting trends. The process is seen to include accumulating relevant data, analysis of data, and exploration of possible placement options. Creative and appropriate programing is emphasized. The role of the teacher of visually handicapped students is clarified.…

The excerpts from a speech to special educators suggest coping strategies for teachers: (1) adopt a consultative attitude; (2) develop the intellectual side of your professional identity; and (3) know your limits as a professional. (DB)

Rehabilitation teachers who work with students having visual impairments are urged to act more affirmatively on behalf of their profession: (1) by organizing archives; (2) by developing a written history; (3) by promoting rehabilitation teaching; and (4) by promoting professionalism and quality. (DB)

Examines criticisms in gifted education from the perspective of a teacher of the gifted. Critical concerns about identification of gifted students and special programming to meet their needs are discussed as they affect classroom instruction. (Author/DB)

Teachers of the visually impaired have a counseling role in helping students develop healthy self concepts. Teachers need to understand each of the phases of the adjustment process in response to either social stigma or vision loss. Among characteristics of the teacher-counselor are good interpersonal skills and realistic expectations. (Author/DB)

The expertise of special educators can aid in providing justice for criminal defendants with mental retardation in such areas as identification of mental retardation, evaluations and habilitation concerning competence to stand trial or enter plea agreements, and provision of services to defendants in corrections programs. (Author/DB)

Discussion of the importance of induction and support programs for new special education teachers notes the substantial additional demands placed on new special educators in addition to the frustrations and stresses that all new teachers experience. The article notes the high numbers who leave teaching after the first year and identifies national,…