The study compared two approaches to content area instruction with intermediate grade learning disabled students (N=24). One treatment presented information using an advance organizer in the form of a visual spatial display, the other via text. Results indicated significant positive effects for the group taught with visual displays. (Author/JW)

The SOBR observation technique was used to observe reading instruction in special education resource room programs for mildly disabled students. Disabled and nondisabled students in regular classrooms were also observed. There were considerable differences in reading instruction across programs and students. The amount of reading instruction was…

The theoretical and empirical support available for retention and social promotion, specifically for exceptional children, is reviewed. The impact of these procedures on academic performance, self esteem, and social development is discussed. It is concluded that these procedures are not effective interventions for children with school failure.…

The performance of disabled and non-disabled students on college admissions test were compared. Performance of learning disabled and hearing impaired students appears most discrepant from the norm. Evidence relating to validity and reliability of admissions tests for handicapped and nondisabled examinees suggests no dependable differences in…

Eight learning disabled junior high school students were taught goal-setting and self-regulatory skills in a resource room setting. The goal-implementation strategy was effective in increasing some students' rates of assignment completion in the resource room and in the regular classroom. (Author/ABB)

Overreliance on test-based assessment of learning disabilities can produce diagnostic results of questionable validity and prove stigmatizing for the child. An instructional-based model focuses on evaluation of the child's response to teaching. Observation and analysis of the student's reaction yeilds results that are more readily translatable…

Describes the Instrumental Enrichment (IE) program, a three-year series of problem-solving tasks and exercises that are grouped in 14 areas of specific cognitive development called instruments rather than lessons. The aim of IE is to transform the retarded performer's behavior from a passive and dependent cognitive style to that of an active,…

Many learning disabled children display sensory or motor hyperactivity. They commonly have perceptual problems in sensory discrimination, memory, sequencing, figure-background relationship, and integration of multiple sensory stimuli. Recommendations are given for psychological diagnosis and educational programming to meet the needs of learning…

Investigated the effectiveness of verbal self-instruction (VSI) in increasing reflectivity in eight impulsive learning disabled children. Results showed the children trained with VSI showed reductions in impulsivity on the Matching Familiar Figures Test, but not in ratings by regular classroom teachers. (JAC)

The effects of age; disability (educable mentally impaired, emotionally impaired, and learning disabled); and time interval on the percentage of time spent in the regular classroom were studied over a three-year period. Reading, spelling, and mathematics achievement were also examined. (Author/GDC)

The author makes suggestions for teachers of special education students concerning accommodating individual needs. The suggestions include: (1) adjust the level of difficulty appropriately; (2) make only those changes which are really necessary; (3) give the poor reader a break; (4) make notetaking easier; and (5) teach for attention,…

Seventeen special education teacher trainees were observed teaching in elementary resource rooms for learning disabled and educable mentally handicapped students. Results based on student achievement indicated more effective (N=8) and less effective (N=9) teacher groups, with effective teachers presenting more trials and eliciting more correct…

Research contrasting special class placement, partial mainstreaming, and complete mainstreaming of students with mild academic handicaps is critically reviewed. Also reviewed is recent research on programs designed to improve the outcomes of mainstreaming, particularly programs directed at diminishing the rejection of students with mild academic…

Discusses aspects of first-grade promotion practices, including a study of evaluation criteria used in making retention decisions, an examination of the effectiveness of transition room programs, and the effects of first-grade promotion practices on a program for preventing learning disabilities and academic failure. (JAC)

Describes the dramatic growth in the use of microprocessor-based systems and the effects of this new technology, including microcomputers, telecommunications systems, and communications aids, on special education. Factors contributing to widespread use include requirements for individualized educational programs, increased support for special…