Findings from a comparison of two samples of school age children, one sample (N=40) identified as learning disabled (LD), the other comprised of low achievers (N=51), indicated few psychometric differences. Many LD students did not meet federal definition guidelines, and many low achievers did meet the guidelines. (MC)

Review of ten years of research into learning disabilities indicates that consensus on identifying characteristics remains unachieved. (GW)

Reviews definitions of learning disabilities and program delivery practices, particularly mainstreaming. A short case study is appended. Part of a theme issue on the disabled. (SJL)

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)

An interview with a professor in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Department at the University of Arkansas focuses on evolution of the field of learning disabilities (LD), including early controversy over the term minimal brain dysfunction (MBD). S. Clements cites a need for adult education centers for postsecondary LD/MBD persons. (CL)

This article reviews the efforts made since 1962 to define learning disabilities, discusses 11 prominent definitions, identifies important conceptual elements on which the definitions differ, and calls for a consensual acceptance of the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities definition. (PB)

This paper focuses on definitions, incidence, and characteristics of the multihandicapping condition known as "learning disabled, hearing impaired," in order to provide a means of identifying these children and determining whether or not they require different teaching strategies. (JDD)

Three studies investigated 98 children's and 252 adults' implicit knowledge about learning disabilities. Overall, the studies suggested that professionals outside the field of special education, as well as nondisabled children, have fairly well-developed ideas about what constitutes a learning disability. Exemplars of tacit knowledge matched most…

Recounts a reading teacher's illuminating experience with a first grader who enjoyed reading Bill Martin's "Brown Bear" books, despite being labeled as dyslexic. Dyslexia is an elusive condition that is biological in origin and distinct from other reading problems. New research shows that reading difficulties, including dyslexia, occur as part of…

A national survey examined similarities and differences across state agencies, especially departments of special education and vocational rehabilitation, concerning their definitions and eligibility for services to individuals with learning disabilities. Analysis utilized a conceptual framework consisting of 21 components. Significant differences…

"Learning disability" is a general term that describes specific kinds of learning problems. A learning disability can cause a person to have trouble learning and using certain skills. The skills most often affected are: reading, writing, listening, speaking, reasoning, and doing math. Following a brief story about a child with a learning…

This fact sheet providing general information about learning disabilities is presented in both English and Spanish versions. It begins with the federal definition of learning disabilities and a discussion of its implications followed by estimates of incidence. Typical characteristics of students with learning disabilities are then summarized as…

In addition to a literature review emphasizing definitions, statistics, and legislation concerning learning disabilities, this paper presents the results of a 1987 survey of academic libraries regarding their services for postsecondary learning disabled students. Responses (n=525) to the questionnaire indicated that, as a group, academic…

Author explored the difference between the learning rpoblems affecting a slow learning child and the learning problems of a child with specific learning disabilities. (Author/RK)