Argues that giving voice to students with learning disabilities is requisite of moral education. Explains that schools practicing student marginalization abrogate their moral responsibility. Presents cases of two students with opposing needs who attend schools with diametrically different philosophies toward learning disabilities. Evaluates…

An Oregon school district implemented an approach to reading that goes beyond instruction to prevention. Starting in kindergarten, the model features regular assessment, direct instruction, small-group instruction, and training for all teachers and assistants. At-risk kindergartners get extra reading instruction. Today, only 2 percent of kids…

This article presents factors and characteristics that make children and youth with learning disabilities vulnerable to bullying. Risk factors and effects of bullying are reviewed and the following intervention strategies are highlighted: increasing community awareness and changing attitudes; social skills training; and individual, group, and…

The need to teach functional mathematics to students with learning disabilities to prepare them for independent living is explored. The article discusses questions teachers should ask themselves in reviewing their mathematics curricula, ways to implement a functional math curriculum, and the application of mathematics skills to life-centered…

Provides an annotated bibliography of nine current articles from the ERIC database on using computers as instructional tools. Includes articles related to computer uses in reading and writing classes; for spelling improvement; to accommodate learning disabled students; and for speech, sign, or foreign-language courses. (AJL)

A teacher of elementary deaf students describes the value of using "big books," which allow groups of students to share text and pictures, as an effective learning resource both for deaf students and for older students with learning disabilities. Seventeen big books in such areas as multicultural education, science and industry,…

In this article, autonomous learning in foreign languages is defined and the steps for introducing it to Year 9 low-ability students and Year 10 high-ability students are described. (six references) (CK)

Used 105 learning disabled children in grades one through three to assess the psychometric properties of a pictorial scale of perceived competence. Results reveal a three-factor solution for factor structure: (1) academic competence; (2) physical competence; and (3) social acceptance. Findings suggest that learning disabled pupils can discern…

Results obtained from the center's six research projects are reviewed, including research on psychometric assessment of twins with reading disabilities, reading and language processes, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and executive functions, linkage analysis and physical mapping, computer-based remediation of reading disabilities, and…

Explores grade retention rates among children with undiagnosed learning disabilities (LD). Data collected on 344 students referred for special-education evaluation revealed that, of the 201 who possessed an LD, 71.6% had been retained at least once. Minority and urban LD students were more apt to be retained before being referred for evaluation.…

Focuses on a student-centered college planning approach for students with learning disabilities and other special needs. This collaborative approach portrays the student as the quarterback and the parents and school professional staff as supporting linebackers. Gives detailed plans for self-assessment, academic assessment, and college assessment.…

Believes that characteristics, such as individual, cultural, or situational affect motivational variables of student functionality. Presents results of the study in which three groups of high school students participated: (1) learning disabled students (n=61); (2) high achievers (n=60); and (3) average students (n=105). Includes references. (CMK)

Points out the following problems with standardized testing and reforms at the middle school level: (1) misalignment of test-based reforms and standards-based reforms; (2) geographic disadvantages; and (3) disadvantages for learning disabled. Presents example of two students' standardized test scores as illustrations of the non-alignment problem.…

This article discusses forces driving mathematics reform: shifting theoretical paradigms, disappointing levels of mathematics performance of students in the United States, and the impact of rapidly changing technologies. Concerns about this reform from the special education community are discussed, and synthesized special education research…

A study involving 185 high school students with learning disabilities explored their views of high school. While participants enjoyed the opportunity to socialize with peers, they found specific classes boring or too difficult. Participants were much more likely to report advantages to staying in school than disadvantages. Recommendations are…