Differentiated and individualized language learning at the School for the Mentally Retarded and Learning Disabled (Special School)

Reported is an experiment in differentiating & individualizing instruction for mentally retarded & learning-disabled pupils in two German schools: adaptation of curricula to the pupils' communicative ability, improving technical facilities & increasing access to educational materials, & improving teacher training over a three-year period. Results show increased reading, spelling, & communicative abilities of pupils. Students' self-confidence & willingness to work also increased, & the new organization forms allowed the teacher more scope for diagnostic-assistive actions. I. Mielonen