In recognition of 1981 as the Year of Disabled Persons, 10 out of the 13 essays in this issue deal specifically with library service to the disabled; the remaining three discuss the Public Library Association (PLA) Planning Process, the New York State Research Library Resources Access Project, and New York State public library construction needs.…

Addresses the need for providing science education for all children throughout the years of compulsory school, including students with physical impairments. Describes several modifications of equipment that can enable students with visual and orthopedic handicaps to do science activities. Lists some special modules that have been developed for…

Legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act mandates testing accommodations in order to ensure that examinations accurately reflect the abilities of a person. This document describes different types of testing for hearing impaired and visually impaired. Individualized testing accommodations such as changes to the test directions,…

This summary of a seminar meeting on reorganization of the field of rehabilitation for persons with blindness or visual impairment addresses the need for a national coalition, formation of a national agency for blind persons, consolidation of services, the use of paraprofessionals, the need for separate state plans, agency accreditation, and…

This document is a transcript of hearings concerning the Handicapped Individuals Services and Training Act that would provide funds for operation of the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults, the Vinland National Center for Health-Sports and Physical Fitness for Handicapped Individuals, and other projects and services for…

Visually-impaired gifted students are at risk for not being identified as gifted. Relevant identification, placement, and curriculum problems are reviewed and excerpts from interviews with two visually-impaired gifted students illustrate their unique needs (e.g., the effects of multiple labels, counseling needs, and the need to feel equal to…

The assessment of behavior patterns and levels of functioning of visually handicapped students is essential for establishing effective educational programs. The article discusses the factors in formative assessment, the types of data to be collected, and the most appropriate measurement instruments that are available to evaluate a variety of…

This article presents an intersubjective developmental theory that focuses primarily on the development of the interworld between caregiver and infant and uses it to integrate and interpret the seemingly incoherent and contradictory research findings on the interactions between mothers and their infants with visual impairments. Implications for…

This position paper of the Council of Executives of American Residential Schools for the Visually Handicapped calls for stronger emphasis on instruction in literacy skills; individualized selection of the mode of reading, writing, and computing; technical assistance; continuing education; emphasis on literacy skill teaching methodology; and…

The article describes educational needs and services of visually impaired children in Latin America noting especially the lack of services for children under the age of seven. It proposes early identification, provision of basic services within the child's home and local environment, and training in basic teaching techniques for anyone willing to…

The paper examines the historical background, the current status, and the future possibilities of educational programing for gifted children with sensory and/or physical disabilities. Discussed are definitions, prevalence, child characteristics, identification methods, exemplary programs, obstacles, and influential trends. A model is proposed for…

Reports some of the current research taking place in Great Britain on designing text for visually impaired readers. Topics discussed include large print; Braille; instructional videotapes and how they can be improved; and developments in electronic text, including reformatting, compact disks, and electronic newspapers. (18 references) (LRW)

Describes issues in the field of orientation and mobility (O&M) for individuals with visual impairments, noting their impact on O&M's future directions. The article examines historical perspectives and trends in O&M demographics and personnel preparation. It discusses issues regarding needs of practitioners serving diverse populations and concerns…

This article on the changing role of residential schools for students with visual impairments considers residential schools' emerging role as resource and demonstration centers, working with local schools to combine resources and increase success of mainstreamed students, and their potential roles in information and referral services and research.…

Diabetes educators have a dual role--to prevent eye disease and to help people with diabetes who are visually impaired achieve and maintain their desired level of independence. Familiarity with the range of adaptive equipment available and utilization of the professional association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, can assist in…