Specially designed instruction (SDI) is at the heart of special education. The broad legal definition of SDI allows special educators to customize it for students, but could lead to role ambiguity, particularly in inclusive classes where most students with learning disabilities receive services. To examine interpretations of SDI, we conducted a…

Although data-based individualization (DBI) has positive effects on learning outcomes for students with learning difficulties, this framework can be difficult for teachers to implement due to its complexity and contextual barriers. The first aim of this synthesis was to investigate the effects of ongoing professional development (PD) support for…

Although data-based individualization (DBI) has positive effects on learning outcomes for students with learning difficulties, this framework can be difficult for teachers to implement due to its complexity and contextual barriers. The first aim of this synthesis was to investigate the effects of ongoing professional development (PD) support for…

Gifted students with learning disabilities have exceptional capabilities and can perform well, but their disability may impede their academic success. Being gifted and learning disabled seems paradoxical. The most misjudged, misunderstood and ignored students and community members are gifted students with learning disabilities. Research about…

This literature review explored areas that are often manifest in adult classrooms but insufficiently addressed or overlooked in preservice training and in-service professional development for educators of adults. Three overarching themes emerged: (a) educational background considerations (e.g., significant interruptions in formal education), (b)…

Systematically observing instruction for students with learning disabilities (LD) provides information regarding the quality of school-based interventions, allocation of instructional time, and other implementation variables associated with student outcomes. In this synthesis, observation studies of reading and mathematics instruction from 2000 to…

Using hierarchical linear modeling and longitudinal data from the first 6 waves of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Kindergarten cohort, the authors examined reading achievement and growth rates by learning disability (LD) subgroup. The 2-level (time-student) growth curve model indicated that lower levels of reading achievement were already…

In special education, computers can assist with individualized instruction and manage recordkeeping, but instructional applications are frequently limited by software. Educators must become advocates by supporting computer literacy programs and becoming consultants for researchers and software developers to assure the development of quality…

Suggests ways to use microcomputers to teach reading skills to students with learning disabilities. Discusses the operation of microcomputers, learner-centered software, and current research. Concludes that using microcomputers to remediate reading difficulties has great potential, provided the needs of the individual student are met. (RS)

A literature review identified generic and specialized competencies for teachers of learning disabled, emotionally handicapped, and educable mentally handicapped students. Core competencies included teacher-directed instruction, active academic responding, contingent reinforcement, and adaptive instruction. Specialized competencies for each…

Argues that denial of Attention Deficit Disorder's existence is harmful to those afflicted and that understanding the disorder will assist sufferers in putting their intelligence to work. Describes symptoms such as hyperfocus on tasks, daydreaming, disarray, and forgetfulness. Explains away myths, including that the disorder is curable or will be…

Reviews the literature on developmental studies programs, focusing on selecting effective teachers; personalized instruction and mastery learning; teacher competence in helping relationships; faculty preparation programs; learning disabilities; and the administration and management of developmental studies programs. (AYC)

Special education is under fire from within and without. Full inclusionists and detracking advocates want to abolish all "separatist" special education settings and "unjust" disability categories, tests, and placements; politicians and school administrators deplore special education's high costs. However, mainstreaming efficacy…

This discussion uses student cases and a review of the literature to advocate for the development of individual student talent as a philosophical basis for accommodating the social and emotional needs of gifted secondary students with learning disabilities. Descriptions of several educational innovations and reform efforts likely to enhance talent…

This paper reviews literature on individualized math instructional techniques with students who have learning disabilities and suggests application strategies for resource teachers and mainstream teachers of low-achieving math students. Techniques described include reinforcement, demonstration plus permanent model, goal setting, and…