Spelling is one of the most challenging areas for students with learning disabilities (LD), and improving spelling outcomes for these students is of high importance. In this synthesis, we examined the effects of spelling and reading interventions on spelling outcomes for students with LD in Grades K through 12. A systematic search of peer-reviewed…

We analyzed two nationally representative, longitudinal data sets of U.S. children to identify risk factors for persistent mathematics difficulties (PMD). Results indicated that children from low socioeconomic households are at elevated risk of PMD at 48 and 60 months of age, as are children with cognitive delays, identified developmental delays…

This review investigates effective interventions for teaching algebra to students with learning disabilities and evaluates the complexity and alignment of skills with the Common Core State Standards in math. The review includes the results of 10 experimental and 5 single-subject designs (N = 15) producing a moderate overall effect size (g = 0.48).…

Much is known about short-term--but very little about the long-term--effects of reading interventions. To rectify this, a detailed analysis of follow-up effects as a function of intervention, sample, and methodological variables was conducted. A total of 71 intervention-control groups were selected (N = 8,161 at posttest) from studies reporting…

This meta-analysis synthesizes the literature on interventions for struggling readers in Grades 4 through 12 published between 1980 and 2011. It updates Scammacca et al.'s analysis of studies published between 1980 and 2004. The combined corpus of 82 study-wise effect sizes was meta-analyzed to determine (a) the overall effectiveness of reading…

Discusses educational environments that minimize inappropriate referrals to special education for culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) learners. Effective instructional practices and competencies needed by teachers of CLD students with learning disabilities are suggested. Specific attention is given to needs of students with learning…

It is explained that many factors are involved in producing a child with learning difficulties. (Author/SBH)

Educational therapy is an approach to alleviating a wide range of educationally related problems through consideration of the four foci: specific nature of academics, relationship between student and academics, relationship between therapist and student, and the triadic relationship of therapist, student, and academic work. (CL)

The article analyzes current practice of the special education school consultation process using such criteria as theory, knowledge base, program goals, and stages/steps of consultation. Recommendations include use of the "Seven Levels of Intensity of Intervention" framework to make instructional and placement decisions. (Author/DB)

Results of surveying of 41 teachers who had experience with learning disability preassessment teams (intended to focus on regular classroom intervention prior to comprehensive evaluation) suggested that teachers were pleased with preassessment team members but did not agree that the teams' intervention recommendations were successful in correcting…

This article describes school-based assessment procedures related to attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, including teacher rating measures, direct observations in classrooms and on playgrounds, peer ratings and sociometric measures, and permanent product measures such as academic performance. Components of a comprehensive assessment and…

This brief introduction to E. Jan Kappers' article "Outpatient Treatment of Dyslexia through Stimulation of the Cerebral Hemispheres" reviews the lifetime work of Kappers in the field of dyslexia. (CR)

This article presents a reinterpretation of Gerald Coles's 1987 book "The Learning Mystique," viewing it as making a positive contribution to the learning disabilities field in both practical and theoretical ways, by offering the possibility of different treatment options and expanding the intellectual base for researchers. Potential research…

The article, a rebuttal to a previous article, defends the value of vestibular theories and sensory integration treatments of learning disabilities originally developed by A.J. Ayres. (DB)

An overview of the historical development of educational therapy as a treatment model for individuals with exceptional needs is presented, and two major disciplines--the psychoeducational model and the mental health approach--are critiqued. A more comprehensive model of education is proposed. (Author/CL)