To identify learning program needs and to make recommendations for quality control and expansion of programs for the mentally handicapped in institutions, four facilities were studied. Detailed questionnaires and visitations were used to obtain the information. The major findings were that learning programs in Minnesota State Institutions are operating at minimum levels in terms of daily support and in numbers of residents served, and that there exists a basic inability to give meaningful learning experiences to most institutionalized persons. Recommendations include broader and more flexible funding, closer involvement of the State Department of Education and local school districts, and the establishment of closer ties between institutional programs and the local educational agency in administration, supervision, and funding. Descriptions of the existing programs, extensive recommendations for the future, and appendixes presenting findings of data are provided. (JM)