Processing Strengths and Weaknesses (PSW) models have been proposed as a method for identifying specific learning disabilities. Three PSW models were examined for their ability to predict expert identified specific learning disabilities cases. The Dual Discrepancy/Consistency Model (DD/C; Flanagan, Ortiz, & Alfonso, 2013) as operationalized by…

Unlike ability-achievement discrepancy and response-to-intervention approaches, the processing strengths and weaknesses (PSW) approach is the only empirically based approach that attempts to identify the pattern of deficit in the basic psychological processes that interferes with academic achievement for children with specific learning…

Founded in 1967, The Lab School of Washington (LSW) has been educating students with learning disabilities using an arts-based curriculum for over 50 years. Sally Smith originally started the school out of frustration with the inability of traditional educational environments to reach her intelligent, but learning disabled, young son and others…

This article describes outcomes of a self-report study on first-year steps that selected elementary schools in Washington State took in implementing early reading Response to Intervention (RTI) pilot models. Surveys sent to pilot schools requested information on RTI implementation pertaining to curricula, assessments, funding, resource allocation,…

The study explored the effects of a computer-assisted COnceptual Model-based Problem-Solving (COMPS) program on multiplicative word-problem-solving performance of students with learning disabilities or difficulties. The COMPS program emphasizes mathematical modeling with algebraic expressions of relations. Participants were eight fourth and fifth…

Assessment models used with school-age samples require modification for use with adults having severe learning disabilities. At Fordham University's Comprehensive Learning Program, a screening session determines the mutual suitability of the client and the program being offered; subsequent comprehensive assessment of cognitive, educational,…

This final paper in the journal's special issue on educational intervention research for students with learning disabilities stresses the importance of cohesion and coherence in instruction across the curriculum. Emphasis is on the task of intervention teams to consider when, and for whom the various teaching models are appropriate. (Contains…

The keynote speech identifies six categories of problem areas for children with learning disabilities: (1) synchronization, (2) consistency, (3) methodology, (4) cohesion, (5) saliency determination, and (6) tempo. A model of neurodevelopmental functions and performance elements to guide researchers and practitioners is offered. (DB)

A three-stage identification process is recommended for students suspected of having learning disabilities. This process examines discrepancy, causality, and the need for special education, and it complies with legal requirements. (Author)

This article presents the goals, philosophy, and theory of the Direct Instruction model. The theory stresses the learning of generalizations with multiple examples through a highly structured curriculum. Connections between theory and practice are illustrated with a variety of examples of thinking operations from Direct Instruction programs.…

This article presents the strategies instruction model as an effective intervention for students with learning disabilities. It describes the model's components (curriculum, instruction, environment), its theoretical basis, the teacher's role, teacher-student interaction, and appropriate contexts. Studies of the model's effectiveness are…

A November 1993 conference in Seattle, Washington, is recommended as a national model for initiating change in public policy as it impacts adult learning disability and literacy issues. Participants included a coalition of federal, state, and local policymakers and agencies as well as adults with learning disabilities and persons providing…

This article presents the interactive, collaborative teaching and learning model developed to teach content area reading to students with learning disabilities or other learning problems. It identifies interactive and collaborative aspects of the model and explains its theoretical underpinnings, instructional decisions, the role of the teacher,…

This article summarizes the journal's special issue on intervention research for students with learning disabilities with emphasis on common themes in the preceding papers: (1) modeling in instruction, (2) the provision of feedback, (3) instruction for generalization, and (4) teacher preparation. (Contains one reference.) (DB)

The keynote speech notes: changes effected by Public Law 94-142, The Education for All Handicapped Children Act; needs for the next decade; and implications for the field of learning disabilities. A framework for change is proposed with four parameters: outcome effectiveness, services in the schools, individual decisions, and balanced progress.…