This article examines a 1995 treatment validity model as a framework for identifying learning disabilities. This model: (1) examines both student performance and responsiveness to instruction; (2) delays special education referral until the effects of individual student adaptations in the regular classroom have been explored; and (3) verifies that…

Seeks to help dental educators recognize potential causes of students' learning problems by presenting a series of diagnostic questions designed to identify the underlying etiology of the learning deficiency. Introduces strategies for helping the academically struggling student based on these etiologies. (EV)

A survey of 140 parents and 323 teachers about careers in science and engineering for students with learning disabilities (LD) found that parents think teachers do not make enough accommodations and employers are reluctant to hire persons with LD. Both groups felt students with LD were not encouraged to take science and engineering courses.…

A study examined the executive functioning of 55 elementary school children with and without problems in written expression. A model that reflects some of the executive function domains (initiate, sustain, set shifting and inhibition/stopping) which significantly separate good writers from poor writers was used, however, none of the executive…

This study examined the arithmetic computation performance of 229 normally achieving students (ages 9 to 14) and 101 students with learning disabilities. Results found that the students with learning disabilities performed at lower levels and that their progress from one age to another was extremely limited. (Author/CR)

This study examined the effectiveness of reciprocal teaching during social studies instruction with several students with learning disabilities in inclusive classrooms (grades 4-6). Results indicated that all students improved their performance on comprehension measures and students with learning disabilities significantly improved their ability…

Examines the efforts to find effective ameliorative measures for literacy difficulties such as dyslexia and dyspraxia, focusing on noneducational techniques found in holistic medicine, complementary therapies, and nutritional supplements. Maintains that dyslexia has become big business for drug companies and that the appropriate research regarding…

Advocates use of portfolios as an alternative assessment in teacher education classes. Presents a preservice methods class special project that engages teacher-trainees in reflections related to teaching writing in a mainstreamed classroom. Discusses the role of writing in reflective portfolios and changing needs in the preparation of general…

Discusses a model of argumentation adapted for instructional intervention with general education students and students with learning disabilities (LD). Reports results from three studies in which an experimental intervention has achieved some success in addressing the difficulties that students with LD have with argumentative writing. Draws…

Examines how changes in the nature of text, brought about by its electronic representation, will increasingly affect the circumstances of struggling readers. Argues that the textual transformation now in progress holds great promise for such readers. Discusses the emerging view of reading disability based on developmental stage theory. Recommends…

A study examined the ability of 56 children with learning problems and 56 typical children to resolve the social problems of whether to share limited resources with a peer. Only 15% of the dyads of children with learning problems shared, compared to 58% of typical children. (CR)

A study reviewed neurodevelopment evaluations of 74 patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) to determine if an association between NF1 and autism exists. Three patients had an additional diagnosis of autism. Findings also a high incidence of learning disabilities, speech and language delays, motor deficits, and attention problems in patients.…

A study investigated the relationship between working memory (WM), declarative strategy knowledge, and math achievement in 111 children with and without mathematical disabilities (MD). Results found verbal and visual-spatial WM, stable verbal strategy choices, and expert strategy choices related to visual-spatial processing all contributed…

Analyzes the factor structure of the Woodcock Reading Mastery Tests-Revised (WRMT-R) using data from a sample of special education students. Woodcock asserted that the WRMT-R measured two important aspects of reading ability: Basic Skills and Reading Comprehension. Results of the analyses indicated a robust single factor and provided little…

Overviews Israeli middle school teachers' perceptions regarding inclusive schooling. The majority of teachers expressed the need to increase their knowledge about the requirements of students with learning disabilities and evinced their readiness to adjust their teaching methods. Teachers also stressed the need for professional guidance and…