In these days of the achievement gap, evidence-based practices, and accountability issues, Julie Allan's "Complicating, not explicating: Taking up philosophy in learning disability research" challenges everyone to think seriously about how well the field is meeting the mission of providing for the academic and social needs of students with…

This article presents an operational, inclusionary definition of dyslexia constructed by the Orton Dyslexia Society Research Committee and others. Each clause of the definition is explained in terms of relevant research findings. The definition attempts to identify unique factors of reading disability, independent of its common association with…

In response to a previous article, the paper suggests it is unrealistic to expect one theory or even multiple theories within one paradigm to explain learning disabilities. The emphasis on reaching a consensus regarding theory or paradigm is seen as unproductive. (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)

In response to a previous article, the paper characterizes learning disabilities as the consequence of a transaction between students exhibiting certain individual differences and the social system of the schools. Basic and applied research can be related in good instructional research which includes the context of disability. (DB)

Introduces several articles which compose a forum on intervention with older students who have language and learning impairments. Stresses the particular importance of serving these students in the areas of literacy skills and self-regulation strategies. (DB)

Four issues facing the field of learning disabilities are discussed: (1) defining learning disabilities in terms of discrepancy scores; (2) delineating the boundaries of how specific a learning disability must be; (3) identifying treatments with scientific credibility; and (4) implementing instructional policy that is in the best interest of the…

In response to a previous article, the paper notes additional reasons for the deficit in basic research and theory in learning disabilities, stresses the need for more good systematic research using multiple methods, and suggests that a metatheory for learning disabilities is not yet possible or profitable. (DB)

In response to a previous article, the paper stresses that, in addition to theory development, the field of learning disabilities needs to resolve definitional issues involving disability specificity, intelligence, measurement concepts, and the continua of abilities. Suggestions for developing operational definitions of both learning disabilities…

This article urges establishment of an infrastructure to promote reform in the design, adoption, selection, and implementation of high quality commercial technology, media, and materials (TMM) to benefit all students, especially students identified as learning disabled. Four "brutal" market realities suggest that the emphasis must be on quality…

The article addresses what is regarded as unjustifiably pessimistic characterizations of memory strategy instructional research, and argues that solid laboratory research on strategy use is needed though much memory instructional research with direct classroom applications to learning-disabled students has been completed. (Author/DB)

This article introduces a series of papers on cognitive process-based instruction for students with learning disabilities. Cognitive process-based instruction is defined and differentiated from the process training advocated by S. Kirk in the 1970s. The method's basis of sound theory and academic tasks is stressed. (DB)

Reviews, from a British perspective, the literature on lifelong inclusive education for individuals with learning disabilities. The role of the family, community, and society in an inclusive educational culture is discussed. The paper urges more longitudinal studies, structured evaluation of inclusive educational developments, basic research on…

In response to a previous article, the paper argues that effective instruction of the learning disabled is most likely to develop from systematic theoretically based research though instructional studies can contribute to theory development. Research in many other areas is necessary to develop the powerful teaching methods required. (DB)