Research will be important for evaluating the results of applying the three systems of the LPAD, IE, and the Shaping of Modifying Environments, and thereby also analyzing feedback in order to define what new development is necessary. An example of such development is our program for training youngsters with Down's syndrome and learning disabilities to become caregivers to the elderly and handicapped. After initial doubts, the outcome of our experience has been extremely positive. From an experimental program with 11 students, we have expanded to a framework which will make it possible to include 40 students at a time in the two-year course. Ongoing research will help improve the curriculum and modes of approach, the selection process for candidates, and also the discovery of other suitable occupations for these youngsters that will help them become independent, useful members of society.
Training is the second department.
Our method of training people in the theory and its derived techniques has become insufficient for the best possible application of our program. In particular, the growing cross-cultural application requires more access to the theory in order to extend the derivation of universally applicable rules and techniques. The International Center will incorporate a broad inter-disciplinary team with representatives from education, psychology, neurology, pediatrics, sociology, cultural anthropology, social work, criminology, and auxiliary functions, such as speech, psychotherapy, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy. In the process of working together they will apply the systems and will shape modalities of approach for children and adults who need various applications from these fields of study. Cooperating experts from this wide range of professions will be able to interact, and, with the help of the theory of SCM, develop an all-encompassing approach to benefit children maximally while simultaneously both enriching themselves and those who come for training.