This article addresses the nature of dyslexia and best practices for identification and treatment within the context of multitier systems of support (MTSS). We initially review proposed definitions of dyslexia to identify key commonalities and differences in proposed attributes. We then review empirical evidence for proposed definitional…

This paper addresses the nature of dyslexia and best practices for identification and treatment within the context of multi-tier systems of support (MTSS). We initially review proposed definitions of dyslexia to identify key commonalities and differences in proposed attributes. We then review empirical evidence for proposed definitional…

Most definitions of emotionally disturbed youngsters suggest that disturbances in the child's behavior patterns cause academic and social problems which affect the child and his peers. While the process of identification may be facilitated by operational criteria within a definition, these factors are noticeably absent from definitions of…

This brief report summarizes research on dyslexia. It is intended to provide an initial look at this common type of learning disability that impacts 1 in 5 students. Included in the brief are links to the original source material and to supplementary resources and videos to learn more.

Students with difficulties in specific cognitive processes and academic achievement with otherwise normal levels of intellectual functioning are classified as having a learning disability (LD). In spite of extensive recent research in a number of disciplines, controversial debate continues with regard to several issues. To reconcile some of them…

Problems with the current definition of learning disabilities (LD) include its misinterpretation, failure to recognize the developmental nature of LD, and lack of statement about etiology. The definition offered by the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities is presented. (CL)

The paper summarizes several approaches to the identification of learning disability and then discusses the nature of learning disability in the context of competing hypotheses as possible explanations of insufficient or unsatisfactory achievement. Because learning disability may only be inferred as a cause of unsatisfactory learning, the…

A recent overview of the field of learning disabilities (Torgesen, 2004) laid out several issues that will likely consume the field for the foreseeable future, including problems of definition and etiology, differentiation of learning disabilities from other disabilities, and issues in identification and service delivery. It has been approximately…

The discussion of the history of learning disabilities, emphasizes the lack of a precise definition and the ambiguous nature of etiological duration, and incidence explanations. He asserts that the teacher-therapist must become the major focus of study and research. (CL)

The author draws on his experience with learning disabilities (LD) to offer 10 challenges to the profession, including to adopt a historically and professionally honest and accurate definition of LD, to recognize two separate groups within LD, and to advocate against the principle of least restrictive environment. (CL)

This paper summarizes and evaluates the research on the relationship between allergies and learning disabilities. The paper considers definitional and conceptual issues, anecdotal reports, experimental studies, and the Feingold hypothesis. It concludes that the role that allergies play in learning disability is complex and interrelated with other…

The author discusses controversial issues in the field of learning disabilities (LD). Among topics addressed are conflicting definitions of LD and the impact of the operational definition accepted by the US Government; etiological questions concerning the separation of neurological, environmental, and emotional factors; approaches used in training…

The paper sets forth the position of the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities regarding definitions of learning disabilities (LD) as found in P.L. 94-142, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act. The paper cites difficulties with the current definition, suggesting that misinterpretation has given the impression that individuals…

A look at the theories of reading and corresponding attributes of a learning disability suggests that there is not actually a difference between a learning disability and a reading disability. (Author)

The etiology and identification of learning disabilities are summarized and a team approach in assessment and treatment is suggested. Topics covered include definition of learning disabilities (definitions which refer to central nervous system functioning and definitions which emphasize the learning and behavior disorders without central nervous…