Students with serious emotional disturbance (SED) are identified at relatively low rates, perhaps because of confusion about how to meet the federal definition's elements. One practical aspect of this problem is addressed: how to determine if emotional disturbance has adversely affected educational performance. Implications for professional…

Although the "consensus thesis" assumes that learning difficulties arise from school structural deficiencies, a study of two English secondary schools concludes that the thesis fails to account for complexities of school development. Instead, open-ended dialog between contrasting discourses would foster dynamic school cultures. (SK)

Assesses discriminate validity of teacher judgments in differentiating various groups of students who are at risk for learning difficulties based on referral to School Study Teams (SSTs). Large differences are found between controls and at-risk groups. Results from cross-validated discriminate function analyses shows teacher judgment correctly…

Discusses emerging tools implied by recent reform efforts in mathematics education. Critiques current textbooks based on three factors (rate content is introduced, efficacy of explanations, adequacy of practice and review). Identifies four attributes of mathematics educational tools that may help teachers reduce failure of diverse learners…

Suggests that labels of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, and behavioral disorders are inaccurate and devastating. Teachers, parents, and students must learn to recognize, understand, and manage strengths and weaknesses in brain function. Everyone has learning differences, and nobody has a perfect brain. The paper describes the…

Examines 109 children from grades 3 through 6 for computational facility and the relationship between automaticity, or efficient processing of addition facts, and success in more complex tasks. Indicates that most errors on the multidigit sums were due to fact inaccuracy, not algorithmic errors. Discusses instructional implications for students…

Argues that standardized academic programs are seldom effective with students in detention facilities who have a wide range of academic skills, leaning problems, cultural backgrounds, and languages. Recommends an individualized and self-paced method of instruction that has proven successful in meeting the needs of this diverse group of learners.…

Evaluates four middle school geography textbooks to examine readability levels, knowledge forms, intellectual operations, instructional objectives, and activities associated with before-, during-, and after-phases of instruction. Finds the texts to be generally inconsiderate of poor readers and to be dense with factual information. Discusses…

The principle of "behavior traps" to change student behavior is explained, and examples of 25 such "traps" are suggested. The "traps" lure the child into a "success circle" of increasing positive knowledge and skills. Examples include incorporating student interests in heroes, special interests, and clubs into curricular activities; utilizing…

This article discusses the importance of mathematical vocabulary, difficulties students encounter in learning this vocabulary, and some instructional strategies. Two general methods for teaching vocabulary are discussed: context and explicit vocabulary instruction. The methods are summarized as they apply to mathematical vocabulary instruction and…

Reports on studies of students with severe learning difficulties and shows that they could, under appropriate conditions, display impressive concentration and curiosity, and often appeared to achieve valuable learning. Describes some of the dilemmas that may arise in developing these kinds of activities for special education. (Contains 35…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that more than 1 million children ages 5 and under are afflicted with unsafe amounts of lead. Schools can be a source of lead poisoning. Other sources include playgrounds near freeways, playground equipment, contaminated soil, and technology rooms with lead-bearing supplies. Sidebars…

Faced with navigating the bureaucratic maze surrounding public schools, more parents are taking along a guide. Such is the case of Gayle Welborn who is among a growing number of parents across the country who are turning to private education consultants to squeeze more services or alternative testing out of public schools or to find a specialized…

This study analyses the prevalence of ASD, comorbidity, educational provision and ability in autistic children in a single health district, born between 1983 and 1996. The number of recorded diagnoses doubled over a 4 year period. This appeared to be due to greater recognition of ASD in more able children, in children initially presenting with…

As public policies increasingly hold schools responsible for preventing school failure, experiences of other organizations that must operate with high reliability may be helpful. This article builds on previous studies of high reliability organizations to inquire how their strategies might inform efforts to improve reliability in loosely coupled…