This tutorial paper examines the potential of otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) in diagnostic audiology. It discusses classification of OAEs, basic properties of various types of OAEs, and clinical applications. It concludes that both transiently evoked and distortion product OAEs have beneficial clinical application resulting from their objectivity,…

This article discusses definitional differences, survey data, and studies relevant to the question of a discernible hearing-impaired, learning-disabled subgroup. The existence of such a group is a subject of speculation, and diagnostic difficulties and the inadequacies of current standardized testing procedures have prevented the formation and…

This review looks at the impact of word finding deficits, psycholinguistic considerations in naming (including relevant intrinsic and extrinsic variables), behaviors indicative of word finding difficulty, screening for word finding disorders in the classroom, direct assessment (both formal and informal), individual differences, and word retrieval…

Use of the discrepancy approach in defining learning disabilities is challenged, as intelligence tests do not measure potential, are not independent from what is measured by achievement tests, and are not powerful predictors of low reading performance. Use of intelligence tests in analysis, identification, and definition of learning disabilities…

A review of historical documents from the early 1900's in Los Angeles indicated that although mental testing played an important diagnostic role, it did not determine special class placement or establishment of special classes. Teacher referral was equally important in placement decisions. (Author/DB)

This response to a paper by Linda Siegel (EC221505) discusses research on the relationship between social skills and Intelligence Quotient or academic performance. The research indicates that it is erroneous to assume that Intelligence Quotient or academic achievement account for the social problems of children with learning disabilities. (JDD)

The project titled "Evaluating the non-English Speaking Handicapped" was established to research existing evaluation instruments in language other than English, validate the tests as well as additional translations where needed, and develop a procedural manual for distribution to utilize in evaluating non-English speaking handicapped students. The…

The Wechsler Individual Achievement Test assesses achievement in students in grades K-12, with subtests in reading, mathematics reasoning, spelling, reading comprehension, numerical operations, listening comprehension, oral expression, and written expression. The test was developed to assist in identification of students with learning…

Intended for use in college-level secondary-education methods courses, the module contains text, an annotated bibliography, and overhead masters. The first section explains the federal definition of learning disabilities (LD), noting the difficulty of measuring many of the characteristics identified in the definition and the resulting increasing…

The paper discusses the ethical bases for practices in identifying learning disabilities (LD) in children. The state of the art in identification is briefly highlighted, as is the controversy over responsibility and abuse in the process. The author asserts that concerns over current practices do not change the underlying responsibility to provide…

The text examines issues related to Hispanic children in special education. Chapter 1 discusses four court cases brought against schools for inappropriate placement of Hispanic and other minority students in classes for the educable mentally retarded. Testing is the focus of Chapter 2, which includes analysis of linguistic and cultural bias,…

Literature on seriously emotionally disturbed children who are socially withdrawn is reviewed, with particular attention given to definitions, identification, etiology, importance of treatment, and treatment procedures. Researchers' attempts to define and categorize social withdrawal are reviewed, and it is suggested that a child's behavior be…