Presents an overview of problems involved in identifying and defining "learning-disabled" students. Confusion is caused by varying state definitions and different interpretations of state and federal laws. Discusses the neuroscientific approach to classifying student learning styles and the ways in which the learning-disabled label is sometimes…

Attentional skills (distractibility, attention span, goal directedness) are crucial in promoting or hindering progression through curricular targets, yet these strands are not included in "5-14" (national curriculum) guidelines. Proposes an additional 5-14 learning outcome with its associated strands and targets to encourage growth of…

Explains a reading and writing assignment called "Writing a Movie" in which students view a short film segment and write a script in which they describe the scene. Notes that this assignment uses films to develop fluency and helps students understand the reading and writing connections. Concludes that students learn to summarize a scene from film,…

A study involving 94 typical college freshmen, 32 college athletes, and 30 students with learning disabilities (LD) found several students with LD reported possible intrinsic processing weaknesses. Students with LD also self-reported difficulties that would affect their ability to engage in self-advocacy through communication, self-awareness, and…

Argues that the inclusion concept must be broadened to serve the interest of all students. Advocates emphasizing student contributions, rather than disabilities, and what this means for organization of classrooms and schools. Proposes three sets of conditions for inclusive classrooms: (1) self-identity and respect, (2) self-expression and…

This article provides a rationale for using graphic organizers based on the fact that students with language disorders often struggle with traditional instruction that places large demands on language skills. Effective features of graphic organizers are identified and examples of direct instruction in secondary algebra using graphic organizers are…

Focuses on the major HTML coding techniques used when making Web pages and online courses accessible to students with disabilities. Examples of accessibility features provided are not difficult for most Web authors to incorporate into their Web pages. With a few adaptations, Web page developers can make online information accessible to students…

Brain researchers developed a three-tier model to treat reading problems, involving screening for early intervention, modifying regular instruction and monitoring student progress, and diagnosing and treating referred children. In a pilot of the model, 64 percent of 215 participating students needed no further intervention beyond tier 2. In…

The coordinated use of performance-based assessment and curriculum-based assessment is explored. Criteria are suggested for evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each assessment method, and a framework for integrating the two methods is proposed. Specific recommendations are given for use with students having learning disabilities. (CR)

Methods for teaching problem-solving strategies for word problems to students with learning disabilities are described in the context of the 1989 National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Curriculum and Evaluation Standards. Examples are given for using the specific strategies of diagrams, ratio equations, tables, and inverse operation…

Presents a case study of a fifth grader with learning disabilities which describes his appropriation of literacy knowledge within and across the social and instructional arrangements in a Community of Learners classroom. Offers cultural-historical theory as an explanation of how cognitive skills are not separate from instructional contexts. (CR)

A follow-up study of 80 students (ages 17-22) with cognitive disabilities for whom data regarding self-determination had been collected prior to their high school exit found that the self-determined students were more likely to have achieved more positive adult outcomes, including being employed and earning more per hour. (Author/CR)

Discusses teacher preparation in mathematics and preservice teacher education that recognizes the Professional Standards of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Six standards for teaching mathematics are presented, guided by the Knowledge and Skills Competencies list for teachers of students with learning disabilities, which was…

This study compares algebra performance tested under timed and extended-time conditions of 88 community college students with and without learning disabilities (LD). With extended time, the LD students' performance did not differ significantly from the timed or extended-time scores of the students without learning disabilities. (Author/DB)

Discusses educational environments that minimize inappropriate referrals to special education for culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) learners. Effective instructional practices and competencies needed by teachers of CLD students with learning disabilities are suggested. Specific attention is given to needs of students with learning…