When classifying the evidence base of practices, special education scholars typically appraise study quality to identify and exclude from consideration in their reviews unacceptable-quality studies that are likely biased and might bias review findings if included. However, study quality appraisals used in the process of identifying evidence-based…

This review of nonstandard treatments as they relate to individuals with mental retardation reveals attempts to increase intelligence and make individuals "normal." Covering the early 1930s through the present, the review addresses: cell therapy, electric shock, behavior modification, vitamin B-6 therapy, Doman-Delacato treatment,…

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) as an area of clinical and educational practice involves a myriad of decisions related to the symbols, devices, and strategies from which each client must choose. These decision-making points can be productively informed through evidence from comparative intervention studies. The purpose of this…