The number of children diagnosed with autism is rapidly increasing. While autism is not a new disability, many families are still embarking on unforeseen journeys with their children. The autism spectrum has broadened, and with increased awareness in recent years, it is undetermined which aspect has the greatest impact on the increasing numbers.…

Literature is an artistic expression which teaches human beings valuable lessons about life. Literature invites the reader to share decisions with the decisions of others--the characters seen in literature. Unlike science or philosophy or ethics, which make people say "I understand" and then "I see," literature, as an art,…

The newsletter issue reports on the current debate on the merits of academics versus "life skills" in the education of mildly handicapped students as well as the proposed Regular Education Initiative, a plan to better unify regular and special education. Noted are the increased numbers of students identified as handicapped with the…

While rhetorical theory has long been concerned with the epistemological foundations of rhetorical abilities, the full potential of the structuralist perspective is far from realized. The study of speech acts and inventive processes discloses the underlying logic of linguistic performance. A speech act is conceptualized in terms of the…

The author discusses the problem of worldwide illiteracy, suggesting that literacy rates strongly influence quality of life and lifespan. He describes the problem's size and scope and discusses the politics of literacy. He also criticizes the National Adult Literacy Initiative as being mostly rhetoric and little action. (CH)

The article reviews the literature on teaching cooking skills to mentally retarded students. The lack of research which assesses procedures for teaching food preparation skills is discussed as are the need for training in natural settings, the costs involved in teaching cooking skills, and the need for more thorough baseline assessment. (Author/DB)

Addresses the rationale for fostering the positive use of silent and alone time in school and notes how silence can be a useful setting for learning and thinking. Explains four sample activities to help acquaint children with the positive use of silence and solitude and suggests references for future reading. (SB)

Home economics can help students deal with social problems, learn to cope with their lives, make sound judgments, get along with family members, and manage their resources. Guidelines are given for implementing the new, socially significant home economics. (MJL)

The paper points out behavioral, humanistic, and empirical issues which should be considered when matching handicapped persons to environments governed by federal regulations for safety, staffing guidelines, and funding patterns. Issues include accountability, the personal preferences of the handicapped individual, and the value of training…

Reports on the extent of illiteracy in the United States and explores various definitions of literacy. (GT)

English and French versions of the Canadian Home Economics Association's position paper describe the place of home economics/family studies (HEFS) in education and worldwide trends indicating the need for HEFS. Suggests it is the only subject with the primary focus on preparing students for everyday life in an increasingly complex global society.…

Discussion of transition for students with disabilities emphasizes transition skills needed for life beyond work. The importance of assisting students in planning for their life roles as workers, family members, friends, consumers, and community members is discussed. Suggestions are offered to better prepare students for all their life roles by…

Educational excellence is shaped by and reciprocal to the confidence of students in their ability to pursue programs that challenge their abilities, provide access to opportunity, and rest upon self-knowledge and informed choice. This demands vocational guidance and assessment. (JOW)

The article proposes a transition program for mildly handicapped students which stresses appropriate placement and ongoing support systems. Following intensive remedial academic instruction in junior high school, students would be tracked into either the traditional high school program (with ongoing support) or an alternative program designed to…

This article criticizes previously suggested (EC 222 753) objective "timing methods" to help the visually impaired pedestrian determine a safe time to cross an uncontrolled intersection. The assumption that timing the approach of several cars can result in a correct judgment is particularly questioned. (DB)