A probablistic approach to classification and diagnosis of erroneous rules of operations that result from misconceptions ("bugs") in a procedural domain of arithmetic is introcuced. Variability of response errors is explicitly treated through item response theory. As a concrete example, a signed-number subtraction dataset is analyzed.…

Offers a model of the spelling process and suggests a framework for diagnosis and for grouping of words. (DD)

Argues that informing, entertaining, building self-esteem, and assessing reading needs are rational bases for oral reading. Asserts that by adhering to a number of restraints, a classroom community may realize the multiple benefits of oral reading as an instructional and assessment tool. (RS)

A diagnostic-prescriptive approach to moral education, based on the work of Piaget and Kohlberg, is presented. The approach is designed to help analyze a child's ability in a special area, compare achievement with some established list of sequenced skills, and plan lessons to help individual students attain the next higher level of accomplishment.…

An instructional and mainstreaming model for programming severely learning disabled (LD) elementary students is described, in which students receive instruction for one half of the school day in an LD classroom and are successfully mainstreamed in general education for the remaining part of the day is described. It is explained that components of…

This paper describes the use of commercially-available software for the Apple Computer to augment diagnostic evaluations of learning disabled children and to enhance "learning to learn" strategies at the application/transfer level of learning. A short rationale discusses levels of evaluation and learning, using a model that synthesizes the ideas…

The article describes C-BAID (Curriculum Based Assessment and Instructional Design), a school-wide curriculum-based assessment system which identifies the learning problems and appropriate programming for elementary grade students with learning disabilities. The system consists of three parts: academic skill probes, work habits observation, and an…

The paper presents an alternative model of treatment to serve the language and learning disabled children in public schools. The Multidisciplinary Diagnostic and Training Program (MDTP), at the University of Florida, serves students in grades K-6 with learning, language, behavior and/or medical problems. Seven components of the MDTP are addressed:…

An elementary school-based team (SBT) problem-solving model is described. Intended to provide recommendations for initial screening, assessment, and instructional alternatives for students with learning problems in mainstreamed settings, the SBT is discussed in terms of benefits, potential problems, developmental sequence, functional processes,…

Data from the Connecticut Longitudinal Study were used to compare two definitions of reading disability: a discrepancy-based model and a low reading achievement model. Children (n=415) satisfying each definition in second grade were compared retrospectively in kindergarten and prospectively in fifth guide. Findings suggest more similarities than…

The report describes the University of Florida Multidisciplinary Diagnostic and Training Program (MDTP), jointly administered through the Department of Pediatrics and the Department of Special Education. It functions as a diagnostic, training, and consultative resource to local school districts in north central Florida and provides short-term…

A scheme of classification is suggested for physicians faced with various prescriptions for remediation of children with learning disabilities. Three models of the causes of learning disability are suggested: (1) the difference model which stresses normal variability in the pattern of development of mental abilities; (2) the deficit model which…

Presents model of multiaxial empirically based assessment in case study of seriously emotionally disturbed child. Illustrates use of Child Behavior Checklist and related forms to obtain data on child's competencies and problems from teachers, parents, and direct observations. Describes combining measures with clinical interviews and…

The way a particular clinician judges, from data, the degree to which a child is in the category "learning disabled" was modeled on the basis of clinician's statement of the traits that comprise the handicap. The model illustrates the use of fuzzy set theory. (Author/RL)

The strengths of item-response theory (IRT) are used to examine the degree of information individual test items provide, as well as to investigate how the individual item types contribute to the overall measurement accuracy of the Illinois Goal Assessment Program (IGAP) reading test. Using the graded-response model of Samejima (1969), the amount…