Less Restrictive Placement Personnel Training 1984-1986. Final Report. OEA Evaluation Report

The report presents findings of the second and third year of a study of the Less Restrictive Placement Personnel Training (LRP) program, designed to develop materials and training to increase the number of students mainstreamed into general education. In the final 2 years of the 3-year program, LRP expanded to include all special education regions with the total number of sites increasing from 16 to 50. Training modules and materials were also further refined. Study procedures involved interviews of on-site trainers and principals and observations of workshops. Pre- and post-test questionnaires were analyzed to assess participants' knowledge and attitudes. Evaluators noted a favorable reaction on the participants' part to the training as well as enhanced communication between the general and special education staffs. There was no notable change in participants' knowledge and attitudes toward less restrictive placement after the training. Recommendations are made for future projects of a similar nature. (CL)