Children with multiple disabilities, often experience challenges in communication, mobility, and learning. Despite these challenges, substantial research exists that documents successful educational methods and strategies for these students. Specifically, students with multiple disabilities have successfully been taught to use a voice output…

The Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was created to ensure that students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education. One hallmark of IDEA is the promotion of collaboration between school districts and parents of children with disabilities. The letter and spirit of IDEA encourages a working relationship…

In order to help teachers understand the importance of intentional design for inclusive education, this article describes the design process an engineer might use when designing a new project. If teachers learn to think like engineers, it is possible for them to design inclusive education. This conceptual design can then be combined with…

At least 60% of children with disabilities have multiple disabilities including visual impairments (VI). Because the visual system is neurologically based, any problems of the neurological system will also likely affect vision. The estimated number of students with VI and additional disabilities has increased significantly over the years. Since…

Teaching adolescents with disabilities about acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) requires selecting an effective curriculum, building coalitions with parents and others, sending clear messages abut how the human immunodeficiency virus is transmitted, and being able to talk openly about these sensitive issues. An organizational resource list…

Teacher work groups can be effective mechanisms to support teachers' collaborative efforts to incorporate innovative practices for students with severe disabilities. Three key rules are presented: be positive, be fair, and keep the point in focus. Guidelines for implementing those rules and for dealing with logistical problems are offered. (JDD)

A teacher checklist is presented for accommodating students with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Points to consider when designing an educational program for students with AIDS include maintaining flexibility, using universal precautions, fully including the student with AIDS, educating parents, and coping with death. (JDD)

This article offers an approach to providing integrated education for students with disabilities by effectively involving major stakeholders (building-level administrators, general education staff, special education staff, and students). A matrix displays categories of support (beliefs/values, content, methods, and adult-adult interactions) for…

This article presents the techniques of a special education teacher who practiced effective scaffolded instruction. A case study illustrates use of scaffolded instruction to break the failure cycle and such techniques as establishing a shared goal, actively diagnosing the learner's understandings and needs, providing tailored assistance, giving…

This article discusses placement and educational approaches for students with hearing impairments including what the law provides, what students need, what conflicts exist, and implications for practice. The major principles of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (1997 amendments) are summarized. A continuum of placement options is…

Using a question-and-answer format, this research digest discusses using cluster grouping in regular classes to teach gifted students. The learning needs of gifted students, benefits of cluster grouping, the effects on peers, identification of students for the cluster group, and specific skills that are needed by cluster teachers are addressed.…