This instructional module is part of a project to reform current school curricula, improve instructional services for handicapped and at-risk limited-English-proficient (LEP) and language minority students, and provide innovative leadership in higher education related to programs for LEP persons. The materials contained in the module are designed to help in training personnel to serve this population, and are intended for use by consultants providing in-service education to teachers and administrators. This module, the first in a series of five, discusses key concepts for meeting the challenge of educating a multicultural, multilingual student population. Topics include: a history of immigration and predictions for the future; the effects of population shifts on the education of language minority students; the impact of laws, litigation and executive orders on bilingual/English-as-a-Second-Language education and special education; understanding cultural and linguistic differences including different learning styles; and locating and using educational resources. Each section contains a series of critical points to be elaborated on by the consultant, suggested activities for participant involvement, and masters for handouts or transparencies. A list of references and resource materials is appended. (MSE)