Commissioner's Rules Concerning the State Plan for Educating English Language Learners (ELLs) states that all school districts that are required to provide bilingual education and/or English as a second language (ESL) programs establish and operate a Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC). The LPACs are charged with reviewing all…

The following two changes in conceptualizing learning difficulties are occurring: (1) a shift from identifying deficits to focusing on assessing knowledge and (2) the use of diagnoses that are more dynamic and domain specific. This article illustrates how these changes relate to knowledge of the learning process and to better instruction.…

This special issue deals with the identification and remediation criteria/practices employed in several countries regarding learning disabilities (LD). An analysis of the identification criteria suggests that most countries follow early law mandates of the United States (e.g., PL 94-142) regarding the definition of the disorder and use the…

Examines identification of learning-disabled students, comparing advantages and disadvantages of most common discrepancy formulas and multiple regression discrepancy method. Contends that educational and statistical significance of test scores should be taken into consideration during identification process, and consonance between…

Simulated data were used to demonstrate that groups formed by imposing cut-points based on either discrepancy or low-achievement definitions of learning disabilities (LD) are unstable over time. Similar problems were demonstrated in longitudinal data from the Connecticut Longitudinal Study, where 39% of the children designated as having LD in…

Recently endorsed definitions of learning disabilities presume that the disability is due to central nervous system dysfunction. To identify those children who should receive a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation, an effective approach to neuropsychological screening is needed. Provides a rationale and conceptual framework for development…

Describes a rehabilitation counselor program which includes a package series related to intake interview skills, goal-setting, and systematic caseload management. Develops counselor skills including caseload management, relationship building, intake interviewing, arranging diagnostic services, diagnosing client problems, and goal-setting…

Describes a three-stage process of assessment, a structured, complete approach to the appraisal of a whole child. Suggests these systematic procedures ensure, due consideration for physical, mental, or emotional disability, significant educational needs, and related services. (Author)