Given the high number of requests for test accommodations and the myriad of test accommodations available, test agencies give considerable attention to the process involved in the provision of test accommodations for high stakes tests. The decision to provide an accommodation to an individual with learning disabilities is based largely on the…

Exceptionally bright and capable students with learning disabilities, often referred to as being twice exceptional, may fail to meet learning disabilities criteria if a strict psychometric approach is taken. To make an accurate diagnosis, an evaluator must consider their special circumstances, unique abilities, educational histories, and…

This article describes the introduction of writing portfolios to elementary school students with learning disabilities in self-contained special education classrooms. It discusses getting started, contents of the portfolio, instructional goals and objectives, conferences, observations, and portfolio evaluation. (Author/DB)

Assessment models used with school-age samples require modification for use with adults having severe learning disabilities. At Fordham University's Comprehensive Learning Program, a screening session determines the mutual suitability of the client and the program being offered; subsequent comprehensive assessment of cognitive, educational,…

In the context of legal requirements that postsecondary students provide documentation of any learning disability, this article discusses components of a comprehensive learning disability evaluation at the postsecondary level with examples of actual documentation submitted to two institutions. Emphasis is on diagnosis based on multiple data…

A three-stage identification process is recommended for students suspected of having learning disabilities. This process examines discrepancy, causality, and the need for special education, and it complies with legal requirements. (Author)

With diversity constituting a hallmark of American higher education, college classrooms are becoming increasingly characterized by students with differing educational histories, experiences, and cultural backgrounds. The importance of using inclusive instructional strategies becomes even more significant when teaching heterogeneous groups of…

Several assessment procedures were analyzed to determine their ability to discriminate below-average from above-average readers among 50 first graders. Results indicated that language tests were more successful in classifying reading skills than were sensory-motor and perceptual procedures. Clear cut asymmetrical hemispheric specializations,…

A study of 26 Asian-American students with learning disabilities in grades K-5 found that although the district policies reflected desired professional practices, there were no guidelines for documenting how variables such as second-language acquisition, culture, socioeconomic status, and other differences were accommodated. Policy recommendations…