In response to a previous article, the paper suggests it is unrealistic to expect one theory or even multiple theories within one paradigm to explain learning disabilities. The emphasis on reaching a consensus regarding theory or paradigm is seen as unproductive. (DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper discusses the distinction between basic and applied research, two contributions of applied research to theory concerning learning disabilities, and issues in metatheory development. (DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper suggests that solutions to current problems in learning disabilities are not directly dependent upon, and may not be affected by, basic research. The necessity of a coordinated theoretical foundation for research and the wisdom and feasibility of a movement to basic research are discussed. (DB)

The paper deals with the contribution of empirical psychology to the problems of instruction and proposes a conceptual framework to promote helpful interactions between experimenters and teachers of children with learning difficulties. Both groups share a common concern, the definition of tasks by testing instructions in action. (Author/DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper characterizes learning disabilities as the consequence of a transaction between students exhibiting certain individual differences and the social system of the schools. Basic and applied research can be related in good instructional research which includes the context of disability. (DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper notes additional reasons for the deficit in basic research and theory in learning disabilities, stresses the need for more good systematic research using multiple methods, and suggests that a metatheory for learning disabilities is not yet possible or profitable. (DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper stresses that, in addition to theory development, the field of learning disabilities needs to resolve definitional issues involving disability specificity, intelligence, measurement concepts, and the continua of abilities. Suggestions for developing operational definitions of both learning disabilities…

This article introduces a series of papers on cognitive process-based instruction for students with learning disabilities. Cognitive process-based instruction is defined and differentiated from the process training advocated by S. Kirk in the 1970s. The method's basis of sound theory and academic tasks is stressed. (DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper argues that effective instruction of the learning disabled is most likely to develop from systematic theoretically based research though instructional studies can contribute to theory development. Research in many other areas is necessary to develop the powerful teaching methods required. (DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper finds weaknesses in the mechanistic worldview represented by the emphasis on information processing research in constructing a metatheory for learning disabilities. An alternative--contextualist--world view is proposed which is holistic, social, and developmental providing insight into processes of…

In response to articles concerning the author's earlier paper, the paper responds to criticisms concerning contextualism, the role of metatheory, distinctions between basic and applied research, cognitive components and specificity, the science of learning disabilities, neurological indices, model validation, and the nature of learning…

This article presents six guidelines and tips on their implementation when designing practice activities on basic information for learning-disabled students, overall goals being reduction of acquisition time, increased accuracy after practice and increased automaticity. Guidelines are explained in terms of the published research from which they…

This article describes a theoretical model of reading disability that integrates research findings in cognitive psychology, reading, and education. The model identifies four patterns of reading disability: (1) nonalphabetic readers, (2) compensatory readers, (3) nonautomatic readers, and (4) readers delayed in the acquisition of word recognition…

Twenty general education teachers participated in a project that combined curriculum-based measurement (CBM) and peer tutoring (PT) for students with learning disabilities in the regular classroom. In interviews, the teachers specified a large number of academic, social, and instructional benefits of the methods, and they also identified several…