In response to Hallahan et al, the authors suggest that variability in prevalence is a function of the methods used to examine prevalence differences and that the effect specific discrepancy criteria for learning disabilities have on the number of students identified is the critical issue. (Author/DB)

Examines three myths concerning illiteracy: (1) the Third World remains poor because of high illiteracy rates; (2) nations can be rated on a scale that compares relative literacy rates, and (3) what is needed is a reliable definition. Concludes the real issue is not literacy, but equity and justice. (CH)

Presents a "family tree" of optical technologies with a list of definitions, and briefly discusses some of the issues relating to optical technologies and their use in libraries. (CLB)

The article addresses theoretical issues and possible problems related to the assessment of phonemic awareness. A definition of phonemic awareness is offered and applied to the acquisition and self-regulation of verbal and written language. Included is an examination of several commercially available tests as well as tasks used in research…

Expands the notion of problem by creating a pluralistic theory of problems that embraces both the limited concept created by the information-processing school and an epistemic concept of problem. (JAD)

Applied eight categorical definitions of "rurality" to all 93 Nebraska counties. Cluster analysis yielded four clusters of counties that exhibited substantial differences from one another. Discussion includes implications for policy and research. Tables and reference list. (TES)

The paper explores the definitional problems of visual handicaps, especially in terms of the legal definition of blindness. A brief history of relevant laws and a discussion of current case law precede a section providing suggestions for strengthening the legal position of the visually handicapped in future litigation. (Author/DB)

Analyzes and evaluates the various conceptualizations of information science that have appeared in the professional literature over the past 80 years. The extent to which the professional community possesses a common and unified understanding of the domain of information science is discussed. (82 references) (Author/CLB)

Identifies different types of statements that make up the structure of a lecture, including concepts, definitions, formulas, theories, models, and predictive statements. The selection of statements and their relationship to pedagogical processes is described, and the importance of knowledge of the abilities of the intended audience is discussed.…

Traces the development of and opposition to Latin American liberation theology between 1968 and 1984. Examines six of liberation theology's leading characteristics: solidarity with the poor, conscientization (consciousness raising), the emphasis on orthoproxy, the recognition of structural violence, liberation and the Bible, and base communities.…

Examines caretakers' definitions of residents at public institutions for the mentally retarded. While attendants have been the target of institutional reform efforts, at the institutions studied, these efforts have not resulted in significant changes in attendants' condescension toward residents. (Author/LHW)

There are six separate features that are the building blocks of a positive self-concept. They are uniqueness, affection, belongingness, usefulness, competence, and influence. (RM)

Reviews the recent attempts of Black psychologists and social scientists to formulate a conceptual-operational framework for the study of psychological phenomena as they bear on the cultural-survival conditions of Black-African people. Outlines issues and problems in the attempt to define African (Black) psychology and discusses its relation to…

Discusses the role of technology in environmental affairs. The background of the appropriate technology movement and an analysis of its practicability and viability are provided. Five metaphysical propositions are reviewed and the importance of meta-technological factors is emphasized. (ML)

Examined three definitions of learning disabilities (LD), ability-achievement discrepancy, low achievement, and scatter, to determine common variance among 48 LD children and 96 non-LD children. Factor analysis resulted in two distinct groupings of LD students; low achievement accounted for over four times as much variance as ability-achievement…