It is argued that Christensen and others fail in their claim that learning disabilities are merely an excuse invented by schools to explain their instructional failures. Specific instances of error are discussed. A reply by Gerber and Christensen follows this article. (MT)

Sixty-eight learning disabled and reading disabled junior high school students took part in one of two experiments, both using spatially organized and randomized illustrations in an effort to measure effects of the type of illustration on recall of verbally presented prose passages. Results are discussed in terms of instructional variables for…

A story mapping strategy was used to effectively improve reading comprehension in heterogeneous groups of third/fourth graders, including five learning disabled and low achieving students. Group averages maintained above 80 percent when students were no longer required to use the strategy. (Author/DB)

Survey responses revealed that nonhandicapped students (N=26) more frequently felt that report card grades reflect amount learned and effort expended than did handicapped students (N=24). Interviews with special education students (N=10) and nonhandicapped peers (N=10) indicated acceptance of differentiated requirements for passing grades based on…

The study evaluated the construct validity of five perceptual traits with simulated work samples from the Jewish Vocational Service Work Sample System. Results with 36 learning disabled adolescents indicated that simulated work samples can be used as a diagnostic instrument for assessment of perceptual abilities in a vocational setting. (Author/DB)

Statistical analyses of the Behavior Manageability and Behavioral Contagion Scales completed by 44 regular education teachers and 44 teachers of the learning disabled found that no significant group differences existed, that withdrawn behavior was most difficult to manage, and that acting-out behaviors were most disruptive to other students.…

The effects of remediation of hypothesized component deficits prior to remediation of known academic deficiencies were compared with remediation of academic (reading) deficiencies alone among 76 elementary grade learning disabled students. Results indicated better achievement for students receiving both remedial treatments. (Author/DB)

The study documented the existence of specific learning disabilities among primary school children in Botswana and compared the relative effectiveness of a behavior rating scale, a group test of visual-motor integration, and teacher identification in identifying such children. (DB)

The younger brother of a hyperactive, severely learning-disabled 21-year-old recounts his feelings regarding lack of parental attention, jealousy toward his older brother, embarrassment, and finally empathy for his older brother. (CB)

The article elucidates 14 principles drawn from the structuralist, constructivist, and holist literature and applies them to the teaching of learning disabled students. (Author/DB)

In response to two papers decrying reductionism and advocating holistic constructivism in models of learning disabilities, the article applauds trends toward a shifting paradigm in the field but warns against advocating any single approach as the only valid path to effective learning. (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 purpose of the survey of 500 resource teachers was to determine the prevalence of social dysfunction among learning-disabled students. Results indicate that up to 38 percent of this student population was in need of social skills intervention but that relatively few were actually receiving the needed intervention. (Author/DB)

A Learning Disabilities Seminar designed to increase the learning disabled adolescent's understanding and acceptance of both self and participation in special educational programs is described. Teachers reported seminar participants were less likely to deny their problems, and to be more realistic and cooperative. (DB)