Home-based learning programmes for mentally handicapped people in rural areas of Zimbabwe

This paper describes the operation of a community-based rehabilitation programme specifically for mentally handicapped children and young adults living with their families in rural areas of Zimbabwe. Details are given of the clients enrolled in the programme and the teaching goals used with them. Evaluation data on the programme's effectiveness is also presented. Three features are identified as being central to the programme's success, 1) partnership with existing agencies in the area, 2) the training and monitoring that is provided by specialist staff in mental handicap, and 3) the provision of resource materials -- forms, cards, videos -- which are tailored to the cultural, linguistic and literacy needs of the recipients. The efficient use of specialist staff is highlighted as are future areas for research and development.