This introduction to a series of articles on the scaffolding metaphor in learning disabilities research introduces each article and raises two main concerns: the lack of careful delineation of how scaffolding becomes operational in research studies and constraints in the use of scaffolding arising from communication problems. (DB)

Articles published from 1980 to 1997 were reviewed on team teaching and school-based problem-solving teams which served students with special needs. Results suggest that research on both models lacks experimental designs and generally report student-based outcomes. Suggestions for continued research efforts are offered. (DB)