A study examined the distribution, use, and effects of 30 research and development products to improve vocational education for handicapped learners. These research and development efforts were studied through a mail survey returned from 321 respondents, telephone interviews with 100 respondents, and case studies of seven sites where these products had been used in an exemplary manner. Across the sites, 284 personal interviews were conducted. Overall, the study indicated that state and national research has had positive effects on vocational education programs for handicapped learners. The primary uses of the publications studied were in workshops or college classrooms, as professional references, in secondary classrooms, and for teacher inservices. Among the effects of these research products on vocational education were the following: increased participation of handicapped students in vocational education, more relevant individualized education programs (IEP's), improved curricula for handicapped learners, and strengthened linkages between vocational and special education. In addition, the research products were reported to have helped handicapped learners by increasing their participation in work experiences while in school, by expanding their awareness of career possibilities, and by improving their self-esteem and employability skills. (MN)